Acute Leukemia: Diagnosis and Treatment

Abstract

Objective: To provide an overview of acute leukemia, comparing incidence, presenting symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of the major subtypes.

Data sources: Review of articles dated 2010 to present in PubMed and CINAHL, and National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines.

Conclusion: The diagnosis of acute leukemia is comprised of a variety of hematopoietic neoplasms that are both complex and unique. Each subtype of acute leukemia has defining characteristics that affect prognosis and treatment.

Implications for nursing practice: Nurses play an integral role in the care of the patient with acute leukemia during and beyond hospitalization. Therefore, baseline knowledge of these diseases is essential. Early symptom recognition is central in the management of oncologic emergencies.

Keywords: consolidation therapy; differentiation; hematology; hematopoiesis; induction therapy; leukemia; oncologic emergencies.