Signs of Childhood Leukemia

There is no known cause of leukemia. The symptoms of childhood leukemia are caused by the leukemia cells taking over and pushing out the normal blood cells. Leukemia begins in the bone marrow and then spreads to the blood. It can invade normal cells in organs, the central nervous system and the lymph system. Treatment options vary according to the aggressiveness of the leukemia, and your doctor can help you decide what options best suit your child.

Fatigue

Your child may be more tired, listless or fatigued than normal if he has leukemia. This is often due to anemia, which is a low amount of red blood cells.

Infection

Your child may be more prone to infection. Antibiotics may not combat infections due to a low count of white blood cells, which normally help fight infections.

Bruising

A lack of sufficient blood platelets in a child with leukemia can cause easy bruising and bleeding.

Pain

Your child may experience more pain in her bones or joints if she has leukemia.

Swelling

Swelling of the arms and face, along with a red-bluish color, can be a sign of childhood leukemia.

Weight Loss

Childhood leukemia can affect the central nervous system, making your child feel nauseous and suffer bouts of vomiting, thus inducing weight loss.

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