Symptoms of LEUKEMIA, ACUTE

The symptoms produced by all of the acute forms of leukemia are similar. The cause fever and fatigue. Anemia is often present, leading to generalized weakness, shortness of breath, pallor and rapid heart rate. Since some of the elements of bone marrow production, such as the platelets are not produced in adequate numbers, there can be bleeding and easy bruising. This typically causes recurrent nosebleeds, bleeding from the gums or excessive menstrual bleeding. When the spleen or liver is involved, a mass or swelling may be felt in the upper abdomen, or there may be abdominal swelling. . There may be abdominal pain. Lumps in the neck, armpit and groin may develop as the lymph nodes are affected. There is an increased susceptibility to infection, especially pneumonia and mouth infections with ulcers and sores. If the linings of the brain become involved, headache, lethargy or seizures may occur.