Frequent bruising may be a sign

Possible warning signal

Leukemia – bruising can be a sign

Bruising can be a sign of leukemia. How is it different from a “normal” bruise and when is it necessary to see a doctor?

Leukemia is often initially apparent through general symptoms that can also be due to other causes. Possible signs of so-called blood cancer include pallor, tiredness, tiredness, frequent infections, small bleeding in the skin and bruising (hematoma).

Bruising is quite common and in most cases harmless. However, bruising can sometimes indicate health problems, and in rare cases, leukemia.

If bruises appear as a result of leukemia, at first glance they are no different from “normal” bruises. However, there are things that should make you aware and pay attention. For example, if bruises suddenly appear in large numbers and perhaps without cause, that is, if the victim does not remember hitting them, or the slightest impact can cause bruising.

Even if bruises appear on unusual parts of the body, such as the back, legs (e.g. thighs), or hands, they can sometimes be an indication of leukemia. In children, leukemia-related bruises often initially appear on the face, head, ears, chest, or buttocks.

If the bruise is due to leukemia, it will not heal as quickly as usual. It often takes more than four weeks for the symptoms to disappear again. In some cases, the bruises also appear to get bigger. This can happen if the hematoma continues to leak blood into the tissue.

Bruising is also more likely to be related to leukemia if other symptoms are present at the same time, such as persistent tiredness, tiredness, or pallor. Those affected should pay special attention if other forms of bleeding occur more frequently at the same time, such as bleeding gums, nosebleeds, very heavy menstrual bleeding, or small skin hemorrhages (petechiae) at most the size of a pinhead.

In leukemia, the balance of blood cells shifts due to excess white blood cells (leukocytes). As a result, the number of blood platelets (thrombocytes) in the body is too little. However, these blood cells play an important role in stopping bleeding.

Bruising occurs when blood vessels under the skin are injured, for example by a blow. The blood then flows out into the tissue until the small blood vessel wounds close again thanks to the platelets. The characteristic bruise remains visible under the skin, changing color over time and eventually fading.

Leukemia often results in a lack of blood platelets (technically called thrombocytopenia). That’s why sufferers can bleed more easily, such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums – or even bruises. Even barely noticeable impacts (that you can’t remember later) can cause bruising.