An expert has warned to be on the lookout for a “common” symptom of a killer cancer that can appear on the hands. Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Simon Ridley – who is Leukaemia UK’s director of research and advocacy revealed that bruising on the hands could be a sign of leukaemia.
Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer that affects blood cells in your bone marrow – typically white blood cells.
In the UK, there are around 9,900 new diagnoses of leukaemia made every year. It also accounts for approximately 4,800 fatalities.
As is the case with any medical condition, the sooner you spot some of the symptoms, the sooner you can get the treatment and support you need.
With this in mind, Simon explained more about what to look for.
“One of the common warning signs and symptoms of leukaemia is bruising,” he said.
While bruising could easily be mistaken for something less serious – like a knock or injury – the type of bruising that occurs due to leukaemia is slightly different.
They might appear in “unexpected places” or might appear more severe than usual.
Simon continued: “These bruises are different to the types which we all get from time to time as they can appear in unusual or unexpected locations, such as on the hands for adults.
“A person with leukaemia may get more bruises than someone is likely to get through everyday life and without any real explanation for them, such as a recent bang or knock.
“Or a deep bruise may appear following a minor incident when previously it may only have been slight.
“These bruises can also take longer to heal than would usually be expected.”
They might also be accompanied by heavy bleeding, he said.
Simon commented: “This type of bruising could come alongside unusual bleeding, such as nose bleeds or heavy periods.
“Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer, so it makes sense that it could cause such symptoms, as bruising is bleeding happening underneath the skin.”
He explained more about how the disease works.
“Leukaemia usually originates in the bone marrow and it is caused by the production of abnormal white blood cells, which cannot perform their usual function of fighting infection,” he added.
“They stop the bone marrow from producing healthy red blood cells and platelets which allow the body to function normally.”
According to Simon, other symptoms of leukaemia can include:
Blood Cancer UK also warns that the disease can cause unexplained weight loss and
swollen lymph nodes (glands in your neck, armpit and groin).
If you experience any symptoms you should speak to your GP.