Leukemia

Overview

Leukemia is cancer that develops in the body's bone marrow, blood, lymphatic system and other tissues. Many types of leukemia exist. Some forms are more common in children, and others occur mostly in adults. Doctors classify leukemia based on its speed of progression and the type of cells involved.

In general, leukemia occurs when some blood cells acquire mutations that cause them to grow and divide rapidly and to continue living when normal cells would die. Over time, the abnormal cells crowd out healthy blood cells, causing signs and symptoms of leukemia.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Individualized care. Mayo Clinic's experienced hematologists will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets your needs.
• Newer treatments. In addition to all standard therapy for leukemia, ongoing research at Mayo Clinic means you may also have access to new leukemia treatments that are not available elsewhere.
• Team approach. Mayo Clinic's multispecialty practice makes it easy for Mayo doctors to consult with specialists in other areas, allowing you quick access to comprehensive care.
• Comprehensive cancer center. Mayo Clinic Cancer Center meets strict standards for a National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer center, which recognizes scientific excellence and a multispecialty approach focused on cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for cancer by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., and Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., are ranked high performing for cancer by U.S. News & World Report.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care — and trusted answers — like they've never experienced.

Why Choose Mayo Clinic
What Sets Mayo Clinic Apart

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