Hairy Cell Leukemia Symptoms

Hairy cell leukemia is the condition where the bone marrow makes too many B cells. These B cells are a type of white blood cells that fight infection in the body. However, excess B cells are abnormal and look hairy under the microscope. Hairy cell leukemia is a very slow growing cancer.

As the B cells are produced, the number of white blood cells, red cells and platelets actually go down. The cause of this disease is not known and hence there is no established way to prevent hairy cell leukemia.

Hairy Cell Leukemia Symptoms:

There are no visible symptoms of hairy cell leukemia and whatever few symptoms may be found are actually very similar to other conditions. This may be diagnosed, while conducting a blood test for some other purpose. Some people may experience a feeling of fullness in their stomach, making it difficult for them to eat. They may also experience fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath and weight loss. There might be instances where the patient might keep getting hurt often and may also have recurring infections, accompanied with fever and chills. Sometimes, there might be pain below the ribs or there might be painless lumps in the shoulders, the neck, groin or the underarms. Sometimes the patient may notice black and blue marks on the skin because of low blood platelets.

Since these symptoms may be related to other conditions, it is advisable to see the doctor at once if any of the above symptoms are noticed. To diagnose hairy cell leukemia, a blood test as well as bone marrow tests needs to be done.

More Articles :

Hairy Cell Leukemia Symptoms

Incurable Diseases :

Patient Handbook For Hairy Cell Leukemia

Hairy cell leukemia in one type of blood cancer where the bone marrow makes too many B cells. These B cells are abnormal cells and as a result the number of red cells and white blood cells are reduced in the blood. This condition is more prevalent among men than women and occurs mostly in the middle aged and older adults. More..