Leukaemia and bone changes: what to know

Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside many bones where blood cells are made. In leukaemia, abnormal cells develop in this blood-forming system and can crowd out healthy cells. That may contribute to tiredness, infections, easy bruising or bleeding, and aching in the bones or joints.

The phrase metastasis to bone is more commonly used for solid cancers that travel from their original organ. A painful area therefore needs a careful assessment rather than an assumption about the cause. Other explanations include injury, infection, treatment effects or a separate bone condition.

Report persistent or worsening bone pain, limping, reduced movement, or pain that interrupts sleep. Assessment can include a physical examination, blood counts, imaging when appropriate, and a bone marrow biopsy to identify the abnormal cells and classify the leukaemia.

Treatment is chosen for the leukaemia subtype and the person’s health. It may involve chemotherapy or targeted therapy, with blood transfusion support when healthy blood cells are too low. Stem cell transplant is considered for some people after a specialist review.

Seek urgent help for sudden severe back or neck pain, new weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, inability to bear weight, or a suspected fracture. During treatment, promptly report fever, new bleeding, or rapidly worsening pain because infection or low blood counts may need immediate attention.

Ask whether your pain appears related to marrow activity, a fracture, infection or another cause; which tests are planned; and whether movement or exercise needs limits. Ask how pain relief will fit with your blood counts and treatment.