Meaning & Definition of word "Leukemia"

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    Leukemia

    /luːˈkiː.mi.ə/

    noun:

    • 1. A type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, characterized by an overproduction of abnormal white blood cells.
      • Example: The doctor diagnosed her with leukemia after examining her blood test results.
    • 2. A broad term for a group of cancers that typically involve the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system.
      • Example: There are several types of leukemia, including acute lymphoblastic leukemia and chronic myeloid leukemia.
    • 3. A disease that results in the unregulated proliferation of leukocytes, leading to a decrease in normal blood cells.
      • Example: He participated in a fundraising event to raise awareness about leukemia and support research for a cure.
    • 4. A condition that manifests in symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding.
      • Example: The symptoms of leukemia can vary, but often include persistent fatigue and unexplained weight loss.

    Etymology

    From the Greek 'leukos' meaning 'white' and 'haima' meaning 'blood'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    leukemia prognosis:

    The likely outcome or forecast of the condition.

    chronic leukemia:

    A slow-growing form of leukemia.

    acute leukemia:

    A fast-growing form of leukemia.

    Related Words

    cancer:

    A disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth.

    bone marrow:

    The soft tissue inside bones that produces blood cells.

    white blood cells:

    Cells of the immune system that help fight infections.

    Slang Meanings of leukemia

    Meaning: Blood disorder

    Example Sentence: He was diagnosed with a serious blood disorder, which turned out to be leukemia.

    Meaning: Blood cancer

    Example Sentence: She said he was battling blood cancer and the support was overwhelming.