In this article, we will discuss various Factors associated with Leukemias. So, let’s get started.
Factors
The exact aetiology behind leukemias is unknown. No single cause can be pinpointed in acute leukemia. The factors that predispose to leukemias are given below:
1. Genetic predisposition
- Increased incidence of leukemia in identical twins of patients with leukemia
- Increased incidence occurs in Down’s syndrome, Bloom’s syndrome, ataxia, telengiectasia and others
2. Retrovirus
- Adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (HTLV-1)
3. Cytotoxic drugs
- Chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide, melphalan
- Procarbazine, etoposide
4. Ionising radiation
- A significant exposure to atomic radiation
- Following therapeutic radiotherapy and diagnostic radiographs of the fetus in pregnancy
5. Exposure to benzene and aromatic hydrocarbons in industry
6. Immune deficiency state
- Hypogammaglobulinaemia