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Disease & Diagnosis
Leukemia, Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma are blood cancers that originate in the bone marrow (in the case of leukemia and myeloma) or in lymphatic tissues (in the case of lymphoma). Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma are considered to be related cancers because they involve the uncontrolled growth of cells with similar functions and origins.

The diseases result from an acquired (not inherited) genetic injury to the DNA of a single cell, which becomes abnormal (malignant) and multiplies continuously. Their onset interferes with the body's production of healthy blood cells and can make the body unable to protect itself against infections.

The word diagnosis means to distinguish or identify a disease. Patients usually arrive at the doctor's office with a series of complaints or symptoms. Through questioning and examination the physician may also observe abnormal signs, such as an enlarged spleen. The results of laboratory tests provide further information. The accumulated evidence leads the physician to a decision about the final diagnosis.

Patients who receive a diagnosis often wish to learn more about the disease and the tests used to determine the diagnosis. This segment of the Web site was designed to assist.



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last updated on 02/12/03
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services.
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