PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
PSC Miscellaneous Prelims 2018
Answer
Leukaemia
Explanation
Blood cancer is medically and commonly known as 'Leukaemia' (or Leukemia). It is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, primarily the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. In Leukaemia, there is an abnormal and uncontrolled overproduction of abnormal white blood cells (WBCs). These abnormal cells crowd out healthy red blood cells and platelets, severely compromising the body's immune system.
Key Points
- > Blood cancer is called Leukaemia.
- > It involves an overproduction of immature White Blood Cells (leukocytes).
- > Leucoderma (Vitiligo) is a skin condition causing white patches due to loss of melanin.
- > Anaemia is a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood.
- > Haemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder where blood doesn't clot properly.
- > Bone marrow transplant and chemotherapy are primary treatments for leukaemia.
Additional Information
Blood and Skin Related Disorders
| Disease Name | Cause / Nature |
|---|---|
| Leukaemia | Blood cancer (Overproduction of WBCs) |
| Anaemia | Deficiency of Iron/Hemoglobin in blood |
| Haemophilia | Genetic failure of blood to clot |
| Leucoderma | Loss of skin pigmentation (Melanin) |
Memory Tips
- Root Word: 'Leuco' means white, and 'emia' means related to blood. Leukaemia literally points to the abnormal increase in 'White' blood cells.