Acute promyelocytic leukemia, also known as fulminant leukemia, is one of the most aggressive forms of blood cancers. It is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia and accounts for approximately 10-15% of all cases of leukemia.
It is estimated that in Italy there are 2,000 cases every year, with a slight prevalence of men compared to women.
The main risk factors, as often happens, are related to behaviors that are not related to a correct lifestyle. Among these is cigarette smoking which, among other things, is also the leading cause of death from lung cancer.
Other risk factors are exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation. Or the presence of certain genetic diseases, blood disorders or chromosomal abnormalities (such as Down’s Syndrome).
We pay attention to these symptoms because they could be the antechamber of fulminant leukemia
The onset of fulminant leukemia is sudden and unexpected, as the name suggests.
Symptoms are often nonspecific and manifest as a high fever, general malaise, night sweats, fatigue, and paleness.
It is also possible that abnormal white blood cells, produced in abundance, can infiltrate multiple organs or the nervous system. In this case, you will have more specific symptoms that will indicate a malfunction of the organ involved.
If the brain is compromised, for example, headaches, confusion, or seizures can occur.
On the other hand, systemic symptoms include progressive weight loss, muscle and joint pain and frequent bleeding. Precisely the latter, especially in the stomach and intestines, represent a clear signal of a probable leukemia.
As some studies also show, they are due to a decrease in platelet production.
Typically, these bleeding also occurs in the skin, with the classic petechiae visible on the skin. Or they can affect the gums and nose, or the genitourinary system.
So, we pay attention to these symptoms because they could be the antechamber of fulminant leukemia. Since the causes leading to leukemia are not known, there are currently no clear prevention strategies.
However, the advice is not to expose yourself too much to the risk factors listed above.
In addition, once a certain age has been reached, it is advisable to carry out periodic visits, checks and examinations.
(We remind you to carefully read the warnings regarding this article, which can be consulted who”)