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Leukaemia
A type of cancer affecting the white blood cells. These cells are part of your body’s immune system, which defends against infection
About leukaemia
Leukaemia is a type of cancer that affects your white blood cells, causing your body to create more white blood cells than it needs. There are four main types of leukaemia which are categorised by whether they behave as an acute illness (acute leukaemia) or more slowly (chronic) growing.
At HCA UK we work with world renowned haematologists who are experts in treating leukaemia. We are able to offer same-day appointments and, if necessary, direct admissions.
Types of leukaemia
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a rare type of cancer. It is caused when signals that stop the body making too many white blood cells are ignored. The cells go on dividing, but do not mature into normal lymphocytes.
ALL causes too many immature blood cells (lymphoblasts) to form; which overcrowd the bone marrow. As a consequence, there is not enough room for the healthy white and red cells or the platelets needed for your body to function normally.
Acute myeloid leukaemia
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a rare cancer that causes white blood cells to develop abnormally. Less commonly, AML occurs when the body creates too many red blood cells or platelets.
These immature leukaemia cells travel in the blood and circulate around the body. Because they do not work properly, this can lead to an increased risk of infection.
Chronic lymphoblastic leukaemia
Chronic lymphoblastic leukaemia (CLL) is the most common form of leukaemia, it usually develops slowly and is categorised as ‘chronic’.
They may also build up and overcrowd the bone marrow, preventing the bone marrow from creating enough healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets.
Chronic myeloid leukaemia
Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is a cancer that affects the white blood cells (granulocytes). CML usually develops slowly, and is categorised as ‘chronic’.
In CML, abnormal granulocytes do not form properly and overcrowd the bone marrow, affecting its ability to create healthy cells. These abnormal granulocytes can also collect in the spleen, causing it to become enlarged.
Need to know
Symptoms of leukaemia may include:
- tiredness
- pale skin
- bleeding and bruising
- frequent infections
- swollen glands
- limb pains
- fever
Many of these symptoms can be caused by the increased number of abnormal white blood cells and a decrease in the amount of normal blood cells in the bloodstream and bone marrow. Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you.
We offer a number of investigations and tests to confirm a diagnosis of leukaemia, including:
- bone marrow biopsy
- blood tests
To confirm what type of leukaemia you have, a bone marrow sample will usually need to be taken, commonly from the hip bone. This test is conducted under local anaesthetic and takes around ten minutes. You may experience some discomfort but it will pass quickly.
At HCA Healthcare UK we provide a comprehensive treatment pathway, including JACIE international accredited stem cell and bone marrow transplant services. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your individual medical requirements. Your consultant will talk through your diagnosis and treatment options with you in detail to help you make an informed decision about your care.
We can provide:
- Chemotherapy
- JACIE international accredited stem cell transplant
- Radiotherapy
- Clinical trials
- Immunotherapy
At HCA Healthcare UK you will be looked after by a multidisciplinary team, including expert consultants, clinical nurse specialists and supportive therapists including psychologists who can help you with your emotional well-being.
Our Leukaemia locations
LOC at The Harley Street Clinic
81-83 Harley Street W1G 8PP London
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
Leaders in Oncology Care
95-97 Harley Street W1G 6AF London
HCA Healthcare UK at University College Hospital
Grafton Way Building, 1 Grafton Way WC1E 6AG London
Private Care at Guy's
London Bridge Hospital Private Care at Guy's SE1 9RT London
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David's gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.