Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (Children)

Acute lymphocytic leukemia is a cancer of the hematopoietic progenitor cells. It has a sudden onset of manifestations that correlates to the bone marrow depression. This is the common leukemia in children ages 2-4 years old, the case of leukemia usually have 80-85%. Leukemic cells are immature and poorly differentiated, they proliferate rapidly and have a long life span, they do not function normally, they interfere with the maturation of normal blood cells, and they circulate in the bloodstream, cross the blood-brain barrier and infiltrate many organs.

The clinical signs and symptoms of acute lymphocytic leukemia are fatigue, pallor, weight loss, repeated infections, easy bruising, nosebleeds and other types of hemorrhage. Upon presentation of this manifestation, within two to three months of the onset of manifestations the client should undergo diagnostic examinations.

A laboratory examination been related to bone marrow studies. The result reveals that immature white blood cells in the circulation and bone marrow. The development of other blood cells in the bone marrow are suppress because of the presence of infection. To determine the stage of leukemia, lumbar puncture will always be the confirmatory test. Other is CT scan and other blood studies.

When treatment begins there, is several phases and includes induction of therapy. There are 4 phases and these are induction, Central nervous system prophylaxis, consolidation therapy and maintenance therapy. Induction therapy incorporates a number of chemotherapeutic agents designed to achieve remission. Central Nervous System prophylaxis may be accomplished through the administration of intratechal chemotherapy. Because of many side effects, CNS Irradiation is being used less frequently in than in the past.

Consolidation therapy consists of higher doses of chemotherapeutic agents that given to patients that receive the induction phase. Bone marrow transplant is also being done to help produce healthy cells and fight infections but the availability has a limit therefore many children with leukemia doesn't get the chance and they have to take medications to alleviate the manifestations.

Nevertheless, when bone marrow transplantation is successful the potential disadvantage is contamination with residual leukemic cells. Reverse isolation is also implemented here like wearing gloves, mask, goggles and gown. The visitors are limited, no fresh flower and fresh fruits being given to the client because this can be a source of infection that aggravates the condition and can lead to complications. Even the hospital workers need to wear protective gadgets when there is interaction to the client with leukemia.

In the acute lymphocytic leukemia, many children are being cured for about 80%. All the support system to the child must be given like love and care because this stage is hurtful for both the parents and child. Although, a lot of money should be prepared for the treatment there is always hope for both parties to overcome the disease.