Acute Leukemia in a Pediatric Patient: A Comprehensive Case Study with Clinical and Nursing Perspectives

Abstract

Background: Acute leukemia is the most common childhood malignancy and is characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of immature white blood cells (blast cells) in the bone marrow. It commonly presents with prolonged fever, generalized weakness, pallor, anemia, thrombocytopenia, recurrent infections, and bleeding manifestations. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment significantly improve the prognosis. Nursing care plays an essential role in preventing complications, providing supportive care, and improving the quality of life of affected children.
Case Presentation: A 5-year-old female child, Pallavi, was admitted to the Department of Pediatrics, Govt. Hospital, Moradabad, with complaints of fever for the last three months and generalized weakness. On examination, the child appeared pale and weak. Laboratory investigations revealed severe anemia (Hb 7.3 g/dl), thrombocytopenia (Platelet count 44×10³/mm³), leukopenia (WBC 3.33×10³/mm³), and 52% blast cells on peripheral smear, suggestive of acute leukemia. The child received intravenous antibiotics, intravenous fluids, antipyretics, nutritional support, and close monitoring. Nursing care focused on infection prevention, bleeding precautions, nutritional support, fever management, and psychological support for both the child and parents.
Conclusion: Acute leukemia is a life-threatening pediatric malignancy requiring early diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment, and comprehensive nursing management. Appropriate medical treatment along with supportive nursing care reduces complications and improves patient outcomes.