Leukemia Rash - Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

People with leukaemia are susceptible to a wide range of skin problems, ranging from rashes (known as leukaemia rash) and bruises to infections and bleeding into the skin. The rashes caused by capillary bursts can be of various types, depending on the blood cells that have been affected, and the location of the cancer. 

Continue reading to learn about leukaemia skin rash, including its symptoms, types, diagnosis, prevention, treatment etc.

Leukaemia rash is a skin manifestation commonly observed in individuals with certain types of leukaemia, such as Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) which are a type of cancer. 

Leukaemia skin rash usually occurs when the body starts to produce excessive white blood cells. As the white blood cell count increases, it starts to affect the various other cells like platelets and red blood cells. When these blood cells are crowded with abnormal leukaemia cells, it causes a variety of skin problems. 

Often, leukaemia rashes appear on the skin as red, brown or purple tiny spots in earlier stages. Skin rashes in advanced leukaemia stages can resemble lumps, nodules, blisters, or ulcers.

The type of rash also depends on the type of leukaemia and the stage. Most aggressive types of leukaemia that require chemotherapy or stem cell therapy usually cause rashes. Below are some kinds of leukaemia skin rashes along with early-stage leukaemia rash pictures. 

1. Bleeding Under the Skin: Bleeding under the skin is the most common type of leukaemia rash. Leukaemia affects the production of platelets, which is responsible for forming clots to stop bleeding. When the platelet count is low, there is bleeding into the skin with minimal trauma. 

   These spots usually go away in a few weeks and often appear as petechiae or red dots on the skin, ecchymoses or bruises, like purpura, which are larger purple or red dots. The Leukaemia rash picture shown above is what bleeding under the skin looks like. 

2. Leukaemia Cutis: It is like skin lesions and resembles reddish brown to purple bumps and nodules. This is the deposition of leukaemia cells in the skin. The reason behind the formation of leukaemia cutis is that the White Blood Cells (WBCs) that are found in the bone marrow start to filter into the skin. 

   The easiest treatment of leukaemia cutis is the treatment of leukaemia itself. There is no separate treatment for the lesions. 

3. Folliculitis: Leukaemia tends to inhibit the development of white blood cells that play an important role in fighting off infections. As a result, patients are more susceptible to developing folliculitis, which is inflammation of the hair follicles. Folliculitis can occur due to bacterial or fungal infection. 

   The best treatment for folliculitis is antibacterial or antifungal therapy, including topical creams and medication. The above is a leukaemia skin rash image that shows folliculitis. 

4. Tinea or Ringworm: Tinea often occurs in people with leukaemia, as blood cancer weakens the immune system. This makes it harder for the body to fight off infections.

   Most commonly seen on the chest, neck, back and arms, tinea or ringworm is a fungal infection. This usually appears as a white, pink, or red patch on the skin, and is often itchy, as shown in the leukaemia skin rash picture above.

5. Morbilliform Drug Eruption: This is a common leukaemia rash that is similar to measles. Morbilliform drug eruption is usually an allergic reaction to the leukaemia medication, and rashes may form 7 to 10 days after first taking the drug.   

6. Vasculitis: Vasculitis usually forms when the immune system is affected. The purple spots or lesions are different to touch, in comparison to the surrounding, non-infected skin. 

   Some people may even develop pustules, blisters and crusted ulcers. In addition to these lesions, patients can suffer from a low-grade fever, body aches and a general feeling of discomfort.  

7. Chemo Rashes: A popular kind of leukaemia rash, chemo rashes resemble acne, and are visible on the face, neck, chest, back, and scalp. They usually cause irritation, burning, and stinging. Chemo rashes are treated using antihistamines, hydrocortisone, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide. 

8. Sweet Syndrome: Someone with leukaemia can develop a rare leukaemia rash called Sweet’s Syndrome. As shown in the leukaemia rash picture, the person suffers from pink bumps on the skin that resemble insect bites. 

   Sweet’s Syndrome occurs when the immune system is compromised, and the person has elevated levels of neutrophils, a kind of white blood cell (leucocytes). 
   
   It is not clearly known why Sweet’s Syndrome occurs, but genetic and environmental factors might play a role. 

The symptoms of leukaemia rash are usually affected by the kind of rash. However, some general leukaemia symptoms of skin rash are as follows:

1. Discolouration/change in colour of the skin: There might be some tiny red spots on the skin that usually occur in the hands, feet, arms, and legs, where blood accumulates. 

2. Bruises might appear on the skin that could be brown, purple, or red in colour

3. Raised patches and bumps on the skin are also seen in some cases

4. The skin might feel very itchy

5. There can be some visible swelling in some parts of the skin

6. The skin or the rashes could be painful to touch

7. In some cases, the skin can become flaky, making itching worse

8. The rashes might spread all over the body extremely fast

9. Some rashes can form blisters

10. Some patients also face difficulty in breathing

11. The body temperature could be higher than 98.6⁰F in others

The above symptoms are also applicable for detecting leukaemia in rash child.

Leukaemia causes growth of the abnormal cells that often migrate to the skin. These cancer cells tend to cause rashes as they spread across the body. 

Additionally, leukaemia weakens the immune system and inhibits the body’s ability to fight viruses, bacteria, and fungi, making the patient susceptible to skin conditions.

Another cause of leukaemia rash is adverse reactions to medical treatments like medication, chemotherapy, and topical ointments.

Leukaemia Rash Risk Factors 

Risk factors are factors that increase the chances of contracting the disease. With respect to leukaemia rashes, there are no specific risk factors that are tied to leukaemia itself. Usually, risk factors for cancer include diet, smoking, family history, age, and genetics. 

Some risk factors of leukaemia are:

1. Smoking: People who are addicted to smoking have higher chances of suffering from leukaemia.

2. Exposure to Specific Chemicals: A high risk is posed by chemicals like benzene, which is used in the rubber industry, oil refineries, chemical plants, art supplies, and paints. 

3. Previous Chemotherapy Treatment: People who have received chemotherapy in the past to treat any kind of cancer, are more likely to get leukaemia.

4. Exposure to Radiation: Exposure to high doses of radiation increases the risk levels for leukaemia. Exposure could be from a nuclear reactor accident or atomic blast, or even radiation therapy used to treat other types of cancer.

5. Congenital Diseases: People born with conditions like Down Syndrome, Bloom Syndrome, and ataxia-telangiectasia are at a greater risk.

6. Blood Disorders: People with blood disorders like myelodysplastic syndromes are more likely to develop leukaemia. 

7. Family History: There is no direct link between leukaemia and family history, but for people who have a close relationship like a parent or sibling with leukaemia, it increases their chances of the same.

8. Gender: Most types of leukaemia are more common in men than in women.

Leukaemia rashes cannot be prevented, as they occur as a part of the leukaemia itself - either as an allergic reaction to medication or because of the weakened immune system. However, there are some steps that patients can take to prevent some kinds of rashes. 

To prevent leukaemia rash issue, one should follow the crucial guidelines listed below: 

1. Keep the skin clean using warm water, soap, and soft towels 

2. Keep the skin dry

3. Avoid scratching the itchy skin

4. Avoid going out in direct sunlight, and use a sunscreen of SPF 30 or more 

5. Keep the skin moisturised 

6. Wear comfortable and soft clothes that are not very tight

7. Use the prescribed topical medications and ointments 

When it comes to diagnosing leukaemia rash, healthcare professionals take into consideration various factors to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Here are some methods commonly used in diagnosing leukaemia rash: 

1. Physical Examination: During a physical examination, the healthcare provider examines the rash and evaluates its characteristics such as size, shape, color, texture, and distribution. They may also check for other associated symptoms like enlarged lymph nodes or an enlarged spleen.

2. Medical History: A thorough medical history must be gathered in order to make a diagnosis. The medical professional will inquire about the rash's start and duration, any accompanying symptoms, past health issues, and any relevant family histories of leukaemia or other relevant illnesses.

3. Blood Tests: Blood tests are essential for identifying leukaemia and assessing its traits. To determine the concentrations of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, a complete blood count (CBC) is frequently conducted. Leukaemia may be present if these blood cell levels are abnormal.

4. Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: To confirm the diagnosis of leukaemia, a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy may occasionally be required. A small sample of bone marrow is taken during this process, and it is analysed under a microscope to check for the presence of malignant cells.

5. Imaging Tests: To assess the disease's severity and spot any organ or lymph node involvement, imaging procedures like X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used.

How to Prepare for the Doctor’s Consultation?

Consultation with the healthcare provider is the best way to clear each and every doubt that the patient may have because of the condition. So, before going for an appointment, the patient can prepare thoroughly so that he/she can acquire each and every piece of knowledge about the condition. 

Following are some of the tips for preparation before a doctor’s consultation.

1. Take a prior appointment with the doctor’s chamber.

2. Bring all the medical records and medication prescriptions during the visit.

3. Make a list of symptoms that the patient has been experiencing along with the start date of the symptoms.

4. Bring a family member or a friend during the visit so that no information is missed during the discussion with the healthcare provider.

5. Make a list of questions regarding doubts and concerns about the condition. Some of the questions can include the following.

1. What is the cause of my condition?

2. Will this condition last for long?

3. Is this condition curable?

4. What are the treatment modalities for this condition?

5. What are the risks involved with the treatment methods?

6. For how long would I need to undergo the treatment for this condition?

7. Are the treatment covered under insurance?

8. What lifestyle changes should I take to reduce the risk of this condition?

The treatment for a leukaemia rash depends on the kind of rash and what caused it. 

If the leukaemia rash is caused as a side effect or allergic reaction to the medication, the following treatment options are available:

1. Switching the medication

2. External application of gentle soaps, moisturisers, and lotions 

3. Medication like topical creams or oral tablets

4. Wearing sunscreen and loose clothing 

If the leukaemia rash is caused due to the spread of cancer cells to the skin, the treatment options available are the same as those for leukaemia. The doctor will directly treat the leukaemia rash, using:

1. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of systemic medicine that utilises potent drugs to destroy leukaemia cells all over the body. These drugs may also aid in reducing the leukaemia rash. 

   Depending on the type and stage of the leukaemia, chemotherapy may be given orally, intravenously, or in other ways. The specific medications used will also vary.

2. Radiation Therapy:  In some cases, radiation therapy may be used to treat leukaemia rash. This involves the use of high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells in a specific area of the body.

3. Targeted Therapy: Drugs used in targeted therapy are made to specifically target and block specific proteins or genes involved in the development and spread of cancer cells. Certain kinds of leukaemia, including those with particular genetic abnormalities, can be successfully treated with these medications.

There are some medicines available to treat leukaemia rashes. The medication prescribed by the doctor depends on the kind of rash. 

1. Corticosteroids like prednisone 

2. Hydrocortisone 

3. Antihistamines 

4. Doxycycline 

5. Benzoyl peroxide

6. Antibacterial or antifungal creams

Cost of the Leukaemia Rash Treatment

The cost of the leukaemia rash treatment in India varies on several factors including the type and size of the rash, treatment modality used, the doctor’s experience, type and location of the hospital, insurance coverage and much more.

To know the exact cost of the leukaemia rash treatment in India, one needs to consult their healthcare provider. The table below also provides the approximate cost for various treatment methods used to treat leukaemia rash.

Leukaemia rashes are a symptom of leukaemia, and leukaemia itself can cause serious complications and health issues like:

1. Frequent Infections: Having leukaemia means that the patient might be susceptible to frequent infections. These infections can happen when the body does not have sufficient antibodies that fight germs, like immunoglobulins. To deal with this, the doctor might prescribe some immunoglobulin infusions. 

2. Increased Risk of Other Cancers: People with leukaemia are at risk of developing other forms of cancer like skin cancer, or lung cancer.

3. Issues in the Immune System: Some people with leukaemia might develop an issue with the immune system that can cause the disease and infection-fighting cells to attack the red blood cells or the platelets.

Risks if Not Treated in Time

If a rash is ignored it can lead to serious complications. Some risks that occur if leukaemia rash is not treated include:

1. Intracranial bleeding, causing symptoms like headaches, vomiting, confusion

2. Bleeding inside the lungs, causing breathing issues, a bluish tinge on the skin, and coughing up blood

When to See a Doctor?

If a person notices any unusual skin changes or develops a rash that concerns him or her, then it is important to consult a doctor for a proper evaluation. While a rash alone does not necessarily indicate leukaemia, it is essential to be aware of the potential signs and symptoms associated with leukaemia rash.

Here are some of the situations in which one should consider visiting the doctor for leukaemia rash:

1. Persistent rash

2. Worsening of the rash

3. Unexplained bleeding

4. Family history of leukaemia

Leukaemia rash cannot be avoided or prevented directly by a specific diet, but there are some food items that aggravate leukaemia, and can worsen rashes. Avoid consumption of the following food items:

1. Sugary food items

2. Greasy or fried food

3. Extremely hot or extremely cold food items

4. Dairy products

5. Alcohol

6. Caffeine

7. Spicy food

8. Avoid sugary drinks like aerated drinks 

A healthy lifestyle should be maintained to support the immune system and to keep the body strong. A healthy diet should include the following:

1. Fruits and vegetables

2. Whole grains

3. Lean meat or poultry

4. Healthy oils like olive oil

5. Limited saturated and trans fat

6. Less than 2,300 mg of sodium or salt per day

In addition to that, drink sufficient amounts of water to maintain hydration.

A leukaemia rash is one of the symptoms that someone with leukaemia might experience. The kind of rash depends on the blood cells that have been infected, and where in the body the cancer has spread. If you suspect that a rash is like a leukaemia rash, it is recommended to get a doctor’s consultation at the earliest. 

So, if you want to learn more about this, or have any particular questions regarding leukaemia, then talk to our experts at HexaHealth. Besides offering consultation, we will also guide you to find the right treatment solutions.

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