a. Compare and contrast the characteristics of acute and chronic leukemias, including the age groups involved, onset, and typical blood cell characteristics.
b. Why are multiple opportunistic infections common in patients with leukemia?
c. Explain why it is best to defer (if possible) any invasive procedures in leukemic patients, including dental treatment, until the blood counts become normal.
d. The mouth and mucosa of the digestive tract are usually inflamed and ulcerated because of anemia, the effects of chemotherapy, and the presence of infections, such as candidiasis. Explain how this situation would affect food and fluid intake and list some possible subsequent effects on the patient with leukemia.