Leukemias Leukemias Leukemias are malignant neoplasms of hematopoietic stem cells. They are the leading cause of cancer death in children under 15 years of age, and the seventh most common form of cancer death overall.
Leukemias are primary disorders of bone marrow.
The etiology of leukemia is unknown. Leukemic cells usually spill into the blood, where they may be seen in large numbers. Leukemic cells may also infiltrate lymph nodes, liver, spleen and other tissues. Acute leukemias usually appear with symptoms resulting from suppression of normal marrow function. Chronic leukemias, on the other hand, can appear with non specific symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss, anemia, or an abnormal sensation in the abdomen caused by splenomegaly.