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You are here: Cancer information / Cancer type / Leukemia - childhood / Signs and symptoms

Glossary

Signs and symptoms of childhood leukemia

A sign is something that can be observed and recognized by a doctor or healthcare professional (for example, a rash). A symptom is something that only the person experiencing it can feel and know (for example, pain or tiredness).

 

Signs and symptoms of childhood leukemia may vary depending on the specific type of leukemia. Signs and symptoms of acute lymphocyticblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) are very similar.

 

The signs and symptoms of leukemia can also be caused by other health conditions. It is important to have any unusual symptoms checked by a doctor.

 

Signs and symptoms of childhood leukemia are:

  • easy bruising or bleeding
    • frequent or severe nose bleeds
    • widespread bruising
    • bleeding gums
    • red spots on the skin (petechiae)
  • bone or joint pain
    • may present as limping
  • swollen abdomen
    • caused by enlarged liver or spleen
  • unexplained weight loss
  • frequent infections
  • anemia
  • paleness
  • night sweats
  • enlarged lymph nodes
  • fatigue
  • weakness
  • flu-like symptoms
    • fever, cough or runny nose
  • loss of appetite
  • stomach pain

Signs and symptoms of central nervous system involvement

In some cases, the leukemia may have spread to the central nervous system (CNS), causing further symptoms. Signs and symptoms may include:

  • headache
  • vomiting (especially early in the morning)
  • weakness of facial and eye muscles
  • blurred vision
  • seizures
  • difficulty keeping balance
  • poor school performance

References

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