Leukaemia: meaning, definitions and examples

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leukaemia

 

[ ljuːˈkiːmiə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Leukaemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, where abnormal white blood cells are produced. It can interfere with the production of normal blood cells and can lead to serious health complications. There are several types of leukaemia, which are generally classified as either acute or chronic based on the speed of progression.

Synonyms

blood cancer, leukemia

Examples of usage

  • She was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
  • Leukaemia treatment often involves chemotherapy and radiation.
  • Children can develop leukaemia, but treatment options have improved.
  • His family is raising funds for leukaemia research.

Translations

Translations of the word "leukaemia" in other languages:

🇵🇹 leucemia

🇮🇳 ल्यूकेमिया

🇩🇪 Leukämie

🇮🇩 leukemia

🇺🇦 лейкемія

🇵🇱 leukemia

🇯🇵 白血病

🇫🇷 leucémie

🇪🇸 leucemia

🇹🇷 lösemi

🇰🇷 백혈병

🇸🇦 لوكيميا

🇨🇿 leukémie

🇸🇰 leukémia

🇨🇳 白血病

🇸🇮 levkemija

🇮🇸 hvítblæði

🇰🇿 лейкемия

🇬🇪 ლეიკემია

🇦🇿 leukemiya

🇲🇽 leucemia

Etymology

The term 'leukaemia' is derived from the Greek words 'leukos,' meaning 'white,' and 'haima,' meaning 'blood.' The word was first used in the 19th century to describe a condition characterized by the excessive production of white blood cells. Leukaemia was initially identified as a distinct medical condition in the early 1800s, with notable descriptions provided by pathologists such as Rudolf Virchow. Over the years, advances in medical research have led to a better understanding of leukaemia, allowing for the development of more effective treatments. Despite the challenges associated with this disease, ongoing research continues to explore the underlying causes and potential cures for leukaemia, providing hope for improved outcomes in patients worldwide.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,146, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.