Leukemia is a form of cancer that alters the development of blood cells. It typically begins in the bone marrow—the soft tissue inside bones that produces immature cells which develop into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, bruising, and bleeding.

There are multiple types of leukemia, and many of them present with similar symptoms. Acute leukemias progress rapidly and require immediate treatment, while chronic forms develop slowly and may not cause noticeable issues for years.

Identifying your specific leukemia type is essential for developing an effective treatment plan with your healthcare provider.

Acute Leukemias

Acute leukemias are fast-acting cancers that begin in the bone marrow and quickly enter the bloodstream. They are classified by the type of blood cells affected.

acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)
This is the most common form of leukemia, affecting lymphoid cells—immature white blood cells that become lymphocytes.

Lymphocytes are critical immune system cells, divided into B and T types. B cells produce antibodies to combat bacteria and viruses, while T cells attack infected cells and help regulate immune responses.

ALL is aggressive, with cancer cells overtaking healthy blood cells rapidly. This can lead to:

  • Fatigue

  • Pale skin

  • Fever

  • Weakness

  • Frequent infections

  • Shortness of breath

  • Bleeding or bruising

ALL is most commonly diagnosed in children and adults over 50. It's responsible for about 75% of leukemia cases in children. Risk factors include radiation or chemical exposure, viral infections, genetic syndromes, and being male.

acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
AML affects myeloid cells, which mature into red blood cells, platelets, and specific white blood cells like neutrophils. AML progresses quickly and spreads to organs including the lymph nodes, liver, brain, and spinal cord.

Symptoms often include:

  • Fatigue

  • Fever

  • Night sweats

  • Appetite loss

  • Unintended weight loss

AML is most frequently diagnosed in older adults but can also affect younger individuals, including children.

Chronic Leukemias

Chronic leukemia types grow more slowly and involve partially developed blood cells. These cells may resemble normal ones but don’t function properly, especially in immune defense. Symptoms may take years to develop.

chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
CLL begins in the lymphoid cells and is the most common slow-progressing leukemia. Cancer cells can accumulate in the marrow and spread over time to lymph nodes, the liver, or the spleen.

CLL usually affects individuals over the age of 50 and is uncommon in children. Symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue

  • Weakness

  • Fevers

  • Chills

  • Night sweats

  • Swollen lymph nodes

chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
CML originates in the myeloid cells of the bone marrow. Though it grows slowly, it may transform into an acute form if not treated.

CML is more prevalent in older adults and rarely occurs in children. Symptoms often include:

  • Fatigue

  • Weakness

  • Fever

  • Night sweats

  • Unintended weight loss

  • Bone pain

  • An enlarged spleen, noticeable as a mass under the left rib

chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML)
CMML is a rare type of leukemia involving excessive production of monocyte cells. It can cause spleen enlargement, which may lead to discomfort or a sensation of fullness after eating small amounts.

Around 15–30% of CMML cases may evolve into acute myeloid leukemia.

How To Know Which Type You Have

Symptoms alone can’t determine your leukemia type. You’ll need to see a healthcare provider for testing, including blood and bone marrow analysis. These tests are examined by a pathologist under a microscope to identify the exact leukemia type.

When To See a Healthcare Provider

If you experience persistent fatigue, unexplained fevers, frequent infections, or unusual bleeding or bruising, consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis offers a better chance for successful treatment.

To confirm leukemia, your provider may order blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and other lab work.

treatment options may include:

  • chemotherapy: Uses medication to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells.

  • radiation therapy: Targets and destroys cancer using high-energy rays. This can be administered internally or externally depending on the case.

  • immunotherapy: Enhances the body’s immune response or introduces antibodies to attack leukemia cells.

  • targeted therapy: Focuses on specific cancer cell traits while limiting harm to healthy cells.

Chemotherapy remains the most commonly used treatment, though the final plan depends on leukemia type and severity.

Preventing Leukemia

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent leukemia. Many individuals diagnosed with the disease have no known risk factors. However, avoiding tobacco products may reduce the risk of developing certain types like AML.

A Quick Review

Leukemia is a cancer that originates in the blood and bone marrow. It disrupts the development of red cells, white cells, and platelets.

There are five main types:

  • Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)

  • Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

  • Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

  • Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)

  • Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML)

Acute leukemias progress rapidly and often cause severe symptoms early. Chronic leukemias may develop silently over time. If you notice symptoms like fatigue, night sweats, frequent infections, or easy bruising, seek medical advice promptly.