Unusual fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising, or abnormal blood work are often what first bring a patient to a hematologist, and the diagnosis that follows, acute or chronic, myeloid or lymphocytic, changes the entire treatment plan. Chronic myeloid leukemia, for instance, is driven by the Philadelphia chromosome in nearly all cases and now responds well to daily targeted pills called tyrosine kinase inhibitors, while acute leukemias are typically treated with chemotherapy, sometimes combined with immunotherapy or, for relapsed cases, CAR-T cell therapy.
When high-risk disease or relapse requires it, a bone marrow transplant replaces the damaged blood-forming cells, though it isn't needed for every patient: many with CML or lower-risk ALL respond well to targeted therapy alone. In Turkey, hematology centers combine molecular diagnostics with this full range of treatments, and Turquie Santé coordinates access to these specialists and the ongoing monitoring leukemia care requires, from the initial workup through treatment and follow-up.
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Honestly, it was an amazing experience for me — everything was perfect from the moment I arrived. The care was excellent; I have nothing negative to say. If I were to have another surgery, I would choose Turquie Santé without hesitation.
Bálint
12/07/2026
An excellent experience from start to finish. From the very first moment we felt accompanied and cared for in every detail, as if we were the protagonists of a well-organized film where nothing was left to chance. I write this review in detail because I believe anyone considering it deserves to know not only that everything went well, but why.
COORDINATION: From the beginning Emily coordinated everything for us—always attentive, approachable, and available for any question. In addition, throughout the process we had an online assistant who guided us continuously. We had all the necessary information at our disposal, both to find our way and for our comfort. At no point did we feel lost.
TRANSFERS: Impeccable. We never had to wait even once. The quality and treatment were exceptional; the transfer vehicle itself was on the level of a luxury hotel. Transfers to follow-up appointments were also always punctual and in clean vehicles.
THE HOSPITAL: A modern, attractive building with top-level staff and equipment. The room was comparable to a luxury hotel. The stay includes full board, with three substantial meals a day for both the patient and the companion. The hospital even has its own café.
THE PROCESS: We spent 3 nights in the hospital (plus the night of arrival, since we landed after 8 p.m.). That first night they carried out all the preparatory tests without delay. The next morning we met the doctor and everything proceeded as planned, precisely on time. The doctor worked excellently and was very kind. Recovery was quick, painless, and without complications.
OUR LOCAL ASSISTANT, ISMAEL: He deserves a special mention. He helped us with everything and was always available when we needed him. It makes a real difference to feel that someone is looking out for you at all times.
THE SURROUNDINGS: Around the hospital there are shops, a pharmacy, and green areas with parks where the companion can relax. If desired, you can also get to know some of the local culture.
THE HOTEL: After the hospital we were moved for 3 nights to a lovely, quiet, and clean 4-star hotel, ideal for the recovery period. The food was delicious, varied, and of good quality. Less than 500 meters away there were shops and restaurants, so everything needed was within easy reach.
THE CARE: Everyone was very kind, including people on the street. Before we left they gave us all the information about the medication, and contact remains ongoing: if you have any doubts, they help immediately.
In short: professionalism, warmth, and impeccable organization at every stage. Thanks to Emily and the whole team at Turquie Santé. I recommend them wholeheartedly.
InTHE Era
28/06/2026
This is the best Hospital for all your needs, and it exceeds my expectations. Bravo to the entire team that made this trip for me seamless. From the driver to the Doctor, everyone was extremely welcoming and managed my condition well. All were well prepared despite certain hiccups along the way, but they rectified everything swiftly. No other complaints. Thank you so much, and I can't wait to come back for my review soon.
Achraf Noufile
17/06/2026
Very satisfied, thank you for your professionalism.
Tevaearai Klint
06/05/2026
Hello,
I had a nasal reconstruction and I'm torn between being "happy with the result" and "disappointed with the result" because, aesthetically, the nose looks good but when I touch it a piece of bone hasn't fully integrated — it cracks and you can feel it move when I touch my nose. Also, around the nostrils the nose is very hard because the doctor added cartilage horizontally without asking me.
I therefore have to have another surgery to remove that cartilage and reinforce the part that keeps cracking.
Carly PETIT
20/04/2026
Very good care. Very well organized, no unpleasant surprises. I am very satisfied.
Shanel Lebegge
17/04/2026
Hospital!!!! LOKMAN HEKIM ISTANBUL!!! AVOID!!! I took my direct return flight and left that hospital — they did a blood draw. They paralyzed my hand. Terrible reception, they only talk about money and they treat you like crap. I went back home, and don't anyone try to tell me otherwise, because I have proof: my hand was all blue and paralyzed from a simple blood draw. My cousin and I bailed!! Don't make the mistake of going there! We arrived; I was supposed to be fasting. I didn't even get a drop of water, and when I asked, they grumbled!!!
Edwon Freitas
16/01/2026
I’m very grateful from start to finish communication and for the care I received during my operation. The medical team was professional, kind, and reassuring throughout the entire process. Everything was clearly explained, and my recovery has been going well. Thank you for the excellent care.
Elisabeth OGRODZKI
14/11/2025
I had an exceptional experience with Turquie-santé for my eye surgery in Turkey. They offer very competitive prices, and I would especially like to thank Nassim. His professionalism and availability were remarkable, and he brilliantly corrected the mistakes of his predecessor. I highly recommend their services!
jolie mbuyi
14/11/2025
I would like to thank all the staff at this hospital for their excellent welcome and impeccable care. A special thank you to Emily, who demonstrated great efficiency, genuine understanding, and immense availability. She listened attentively and supported us from beginning to end; she is a truly lovely woman. Don't hesitate to trust them; you will be in good hands!
Kevin Amrani
11/11/2025
Go there with your eyes closed, stop listening to what they tell you in France.
The service is so impeccable, not a single misstep, from the airport pick-up upon arrival in Turkey to the return to the airport after the operation.
The medical staff is very kind, the surgeon is extremely competent, a brand new 4-star hotel with a Turkish breakfast. A 24-hour translator, a rate two and a half times cheaper than in France... I'll stop there, no need to go any further.
This content complies with the editorial policy of Turquie Santé. It was written by Emily White, Head of the Editorial Team, who has over 11 years of experience in scientific research and clinic management in Turkey. She ensures the reliability of medical information while making complex data accessible to everyone.
Verified CV : Medical Oncology. Training: Hacettepe University; residency at Şişli Etfal Hospital, Istanbul; further oncology training at Hacettepe University Institute of Oncology. Expertise: diagnosis and treatment of malignant diseases and individualized ... Read more
Prof.Dr.Süleyman Alıcı
Main specialty : Oncology Years of experience : 36 years. Significant training : Bachelor's degree from Ataturk University, specialization in Internal Medicine from Selcuk University, minor specialization in Medical Oncology from Istanbul University. Mastered ... Read more
Main Specialty : Medical Oncology and Internal Medicine SpecialistYears of Experience : 38 years.Notable Education : Hacettepe University (Faculty of Medicine),Ankara Training Hospital (Internal Medicine Specialization),Ankara University (Associate ... Read more
Main specialty : Pediatric Hematology and OncologyYears of experience : More than 20 years.Key training : Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Sami Ulus Children’s Hospital, Hacettepe University – Pediatric Hematology.Languages spoken : English, ... Read more
Mehmet Akif Öztürk
Graduated in medicine from Marmara University (2003),specializing in internal medicine (2009) and medical oncology at Cerrahpaşa University (2012).
Mandatory service at Hatay Antakya State Hospital (2012-2014),became assistant professor in 2015 and ... Read more
Main Specialty : Oncology Years of Experience : 19 years. Notable Training : Dicle University, Faculty of Medicine 2007; Associate Professor of Medical Oncology 2023 Mastered Techniques : Immunotherapy; Hormonal Therapy; Chemotherapy Notable Achievements : ... Read more
Main Specialty : Oncology Years of Experience : Over 20 years in medical oncology. Notable Trainings : Graduation from Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine in 1993; Specialization in Internal Diseases at Taksim Training and Research Hospital in ... Read more
Asst. Prof. Dr. Meltem Topalgökçeli Selam
Main Specialty : Medical Oncology Years of Experience : 21 years. Notable Education : İstanbul Faculty of Medicine, İstanbul University; Üsküdar American Academy for Girls Expertise : Gastrointestinal cancers; Ovarian cancers Notable Achievements : At ... Read more
Main Specialty : Medical OncologyYears of Experience : 36 years.Notable Training : Doctorate in Medicine, Specialization in Internal Medicine, Specialization in Medical Oncology.Notable Achievements : Member of the National Cancer Advisory Board, 194 articles ... Read more
Assoc.Prof.Yusuf AÇIKGÖZ
Main Specialty : Medical Oncology Years of Experience : 9 years. Notable Training : Faculty of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology Mastered Techniques : Clinical Trials, Biostatistics, Immuno-Oncology, Good Clinical Practices Notable Achievements : ... Read more
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Leukemias are generally divided into acute and chronic forms, depending on how quickly the disease progresses.
In acute leukemia, cancer cells multiply rapidly and symptoms appear early. In chronic leukemia, however, malignant cells tend to multiply more slowly, although they accumulate in greater numbers.
Lymphocytic leukemia
Lymphocytic leukemia is a type of leukemia that affects white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are part of the immune system and help fight infections.
There are two main types of lymphocytic leukemia:
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL): This is the form in which the disease progresses rapidly and complications quickly become dangerous. It is most common in children.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL): This is a slow-growing type of leukemia that occurs most often in adults. This form of the disease can sometimes go undetected for several years.
Myeloid leukemia
Myeloid leukemia is a form of blood cancer that affects the myeloid blood cells in the bone marrow. Myeloid cells are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection.
There are two types of myeloid leukemia:
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Chronic myeloid (myelocytic or granular) leukemia (CML).
Causes of leukemia
The exact causes of leukemia are not well understood. However, it is known that genetic and environmental factors play a key role in its development.
In general, leukemia occurs when certain blood cells undergo DNA mutations. These chromosomal and/or genetic changes promote abnormal proliferation of the affected cells, which divide more rapidly and survive longer than healthy cells.
While most of these changes occur during a person's lifetime and are not inherited from parents, some genetic predispositions can be passed on, increasing the risk of developing leukemia.
Risk factors
Several factors have been identified that increase the risk of developing leukemia:
Prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals, especially benzene and its derivatives.
Exposure to high levels of radiation, such as that used in radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
Smoking increases the risk of harmful genetic mutations.
Chromosomal and genetic abnormalities that may promote malignant transformation of blood cells.
Certain pre-existing blood disorders, such as myelodysplastic syndromes, affect cell production.
Hereditary factors, such as Down syndrome, which is associated with an increased risk of leukemia.
A family history of leukemia, which appears to increase the risk in close relatives slightly.
While the precise causes of leukemia are not fully understood, adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial for risk reduction. This includes avoiding smoking and implementing protective measures in workplaces, particularly when exposed to chemicals or radiation.
Regular medical checkups, including a complete blood count, will help monitor bone marrow function and detect any abnormalities early.
Symptoms of Leukemia
In the early stages of chronic leukemia, there may be no symptoms at all because the leukemia cells are not interfering with the functions of other cells. In acute leukemia, however, symptoms appear quickly and can progress very rapidly.
Like other blood cells, leukemia cells circulate throughout the body, and symptoms vary depending on their number and location. Symptoms typically include persistent fatigue, night sweats, fever, headache, paleness, unexplained weight loss, and increased susceptibility to infection. Bone and joint pain, frequent bleeding, enlarged spleen and swollen lymph nodes may also occur.
Sometimes leukemic blasts can invade organs such as the stomach, intestines, kidneys, lungs, or nervous system. This leads to specific symptoms that indicate dysfunction of the affected organ.
Not all of these symptoms are sure signs of leukemia, as they can be associated with many other diseases. It is therefore necessary to consult your doctor to find out more about the nature of the disorders.
Diagnosis of Leukemia
Diagnosing leukemia requires a thorough medical evaluation by a hematologist. The first step in this evaluation is to look for any enlargement of the lymph nodes, liver, or spleen. This is followed by a series of tests, including a complete blood count and a bone marrow sample, which are essential to make an accurate diagnosis and guide the choice of treatment.
At the same time, radiologic studies and a lumbar puncture of the cerebrospinal fluid may be ordered to rule out or confirm the involvement of other organs in the leukemic process.
Blood tests, including a complete blood count and indicators of liver and kidney function, provide valuable information. In leukemia, white blood cell, red blood cell, and platelet counts are often altered relative to established norms.
This comprehensive diagnostic process is crucial for differentiating cancerous cells from healthy blood cells, thereby ensuring an accurate diagnosis and guiding the selection of appropriate treatment.
Leukemia treatment in Turkey
Chemotherapy process
This treatment aims to inject chemicals into the patient's body so that they destroy leukemia cells and allow healthy cells to be produced. The use of different anticancer drugs is required. Two types of chemotherapy are used:
Intensive chemotherapy.
Non-intensive chemotherapy.
Stem Cell Transplant (Bone Marrow)
After chemotherapy, the patient receives a stem cell (bone marrow) transplant to replace the destroyed cells. The transplant is also designed to allow the bone marrow to re-form to produce healthy blood components. While age was once a significant factor, eligibility for bone marrow transplants is now primarily determined by a patient's overall health and the specific characteristics of their leukemia, with successful transplants performed on patients over 55 and even into their 70s or 80s in selected cases. In Turkey, specialized centers report bone marrow transplant success rates ranging from 80% to 99%, depending on the patient's condition and the type of transplant.
Additional treatments
Depending on the patient's case, other leukemia treatments may be used. These may include:
Radiotherapy: uses radiation or other types of energy to kill leukemia cells.
Targeted therapy: uses drugs that block the growth and division of leukemia cells.
Immunotherapy: stimulates the patient's immune system to attack leukemia cells.
Supportive care.
Side effects of blood cancer treatments
Leukemia treatments, especially chemotherapy, can have serious effects on the patient's body. These side effects include:
Nausea and vomiting.
Hair loss.
Fatigue and lack of energy.
Loss of appetite and weight.
Heart problems.
Anemia due to low blood cell counts.
Mucositis (inflammation of the lining of the mouth).
To alleviate these side effects, various medications are available to support patients during their recovery.
Dr. Mustafa Emre Ercin is an Associate Professor of pathology, an expert in cellular analysis and tissue diagnosis at LHU Ankara. A key link between research and clinical practice, he validates the terminological and diagnostic accuracy of our content, ensuring laboratory analysis explanations are scientifically exact.
Leukemia treatment FAQ
Why choose Turkey for leukemia treatment?
Turkey offers hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission International, specialized hematologists, and advanced treatments (immunotherapy, targeted therapies, stem cell transplantation) at costs 30–50% more affordable than in Europe, with fast access for international patients.
What is the cost of leukemia treatment in Turkey?
The cost varies depending on the type of leukemia and the chosen treatment protocol. In Turkey, treatments (chemotherapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplantation) are on average 30–50% less expensive than in Western Europe. For instance, chemotherapy for leukemia typically ranges from $8,000 to $16,000 for a full course, while a bone marrow transplant can range from $30,000 to $85,000, depending on the type (autologous or allogeneic) and specific hospital. A personalized quote is provided after reviewing the medical file.
Which age groups are most affected by leukemia?
Leukemia can occur at any age. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is common in children, with peak incidence between 2 and 5 years old, while chronic lymphocytic leukemia mainly affects older adults and is most frequently diagnosed among people aged 65 to 74 years.
How long does leukemia treatment last?
Acute leukemias generally require approximately 2 years of intensive treatment, with initial induction and consolidation phases followed by maintenance therapy. Chronic forms may require treatment ranging from fixed-duration regimens lasting months to ongoing therapy, depending on the type, response to treatment, and disease progression.
Is leukemia a curable disease?
Some acute leukemias can achieve remission and long-term disease control with intensive treatment and stem cell transplantation, with outcomes varying by subtype and prognostic factors. Chronic forms are generally incurable but often respond to modern targeted therapies, allowing long-term remission and disease control in many patients.
