The causes and symptoms of blood cancer in children you need to recognize so that it can be treated as soon as possible. Blood cancer (leukemia) is a type of cancer that often attacks children, and this disease is quite dangerous.
Blood cancer is cancer that attacks white blood cells. When experiencing cancer of the blood, white blood cells that increase in number are not able to protect the child's body from infection, even turning to attack the cells in the body itself. This condition can cause various health problems, especially infectious diseases.
Causes of Blood Cancer in Children
Blood cancer results from mutations or changes in genetic traits in blood cells, so that these cells grow out of control. But until now, things that trigger cell mutations that cause blood cancer are not known with certainty.
Although the cause is unknown, there are several factors that can increase the risk of leukemia in children. One of them is genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, neurofibromatosis in children, and Fanconi anemia.
In addition, radiation exposure and pregnant women who often consume alcohol is believed to also increase the risk of leukemia in children. However, this still requires further research.
Symptoms of Blood Cancer in Children to Watch Out for
Blood cancer requires prompt and proper treatment. If not treated immediately, this disease can endanger the lives of children. Parents should know some of the symptoms of blood cancer that should be watched out for, namely:
Blood cancer requires prompt and proper treatment. If not treated immediately, this disease can endanger the lives of children. Parents should know some of the symptoms of blood cancer that should be watched out for, namely:
1. Pale face
Blood cancer can cause a decrease in red blood cells (erythrocytes). The low amount of erythrocytes will cause a decrease in hemoglobin levels in the blood, so that children can experience anemia and cause symptoms such as pale, weak, easily tired, and shortness of breath.
2. Susceptible to infection
In leukemia, white blood cells that function to protect the body from infection increases in number. Even so, these cells do not function normally. This is what causes children to become more vulnerable to infection. Symptoms can be a prolonged fever.
3. Easily bleed
Children who suffer from leukemia are also prone to bleeding, due to a decrease in platelet count. Low platelet counts will interfere with the process of blood clotting, making bleeding easier. Symptoms include easy bruising, bleeding gums, and frequent nosebleeds.
4. Bone and joint pain
Pain in bones and joints is often felt by children who have leukemia. This condition is caused by a buildup of abnormal white blood cells in that section.
5. Difficulty breathing
Blood cancer in children can affect the thymus gland. Because of its location in the neck, swelling of the gland can compress the trachea and make it difficult for the child to breathe. Difficulty in breathing can also occur due to a buildup of abnormal cells in the blood vessels of the lungs.
6. Loss of appetite and stomach pain
When abnormal cells accumulate in the liver, kidneys, and spleen, the organs will swell and compress other organs. This condition can cause stomach pain and discomfort. In children who have leukemia, their appetite also often decreases.
7. Swollen glands
White blood cells in children suffering from leukemia also often collect in the lymph nodes. This will cause swelling of the gland. Symptoms include lumps in the neck, chest, armpits, or groin.
Be aware of the symptoms of blood cancer in children. When children experience these symptoms, immediately consult a doctor to ascertain the cause and get the right treatment.
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