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1 888 939-3333
TTY 1 866 786-3934
1 888 939-3333
TTY1 866 786-3934
info@cis.cancer.ca
Glossary / L
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leukemia

A type of cancer that starts in the blood-forming tissue in the bone marrow. It causes large numbers of abnormal white blood cells to be produced and enter the bloodstream. These abnormal cells crowd out normal white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets so they can’t work properly.

 

Leukemias are classified as lymphocytic leukemia or myelogenous leukemia.

The Canadian Cancer Society only provides information that is general in nature and cannot guarantee that it is error-free or complete. The Canadian Cancer Society is not responsible for the quality of the information or services provided by another organization, nor does it endorse any service, product, treatment or therapy. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before making a medical decision.

 


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