Blood Cancer Signs

Blood cancer is a form of cancer occurring in the cells of the blood as well as the bone marrow. One of the most common forms of blood cancer is leukemia, which is characterized by uncontrolled and abnormal proliferation of blood cells. Leukemia can occur at any age, and if left unnoticed and untreated for a long time, it can lead to death. Other common forms of blood cancer include multiple myeloma and lymphoma. Multiple myeloma is a form of blood cancer that generally originates in the plasma cells in the bone marrow, while lymphoma is originates in the lymphocytes, which are a major constituent of the immune system.

Causes of Leukemia

According to the staff of the Mayo Clinic, factors such as genetic recombinations, exposure to radiation and chemicals such as benzene, and microorganisms such as viruses (human T-lymphotropic virus) among others play a major role in the development of leukemia. These agents generally result in mutations or changes in DNA, causing abnormal functioning of blood cells.

Easy Bruising

Two of the most common symptoms associated with blood cancer are easy bruising and uncontrolled bleeding. In blood cancer, normal blood cells are replaced by abnormal, immature white blood cells. As a result, blood platelets are displaced. Blood platelets play a significant role in the blood clotting process, so the reduction in their number results in easy bruising and uncontrollable bleeding.

Anemia and Tiredness

Anemia also is one of the most common symptoms associated with blood cancer. Red blood cells supply oxygen to the body through the blood. Leukemia lowers the numbers of these cells, which leads to anemia. Because of this condition, patients often complain of tiredness and weakness even while sitting idle.

Frequent Infections

White blood cells help to fight infections. In leukemia, functional white blood cells are reduced in number, so patients often experience frequent and repeated infections caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.

Other Common Symptoms

Various other common symptoms of leukemia as well as multiple myeloma and lymphoma include loss of appetite, uncontrolled weight loss, excessive sweating that is worse at night, high fever and bone and joint pain.

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