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Leukemia is cancer of the white blood cells, which play an important role in fighting infections. All blood cells are produced in the bone marrow—the spongy tissue in the center of bones. When a child has leukemia, too many abnormal early-stage white blood cells are produced. This can interfere with the production of red blood cells (which carry oxygen) and platelets (which help blood clot). The abnormal white blood cells can damage the function of many different organs and tissues and can also invade the spinal fluid. Leukemia can occur in children of all ages but affects boys more often than girls. Leukemia is believed to be caused by genetic mutations—abnormal changes in the genes of blood cells. Leukemia is not contagious and does not generally run in families. The January 28, 2004, issue of JAMA includes an article about clinical trials for children with leukemia.

SYMPTOMS

• Fever
  
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