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Last update : 10/10/2026

Leukemia | Causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatment in Turkey

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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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💶 Leukemia treatment price in Turkey

In 2026, expect to pay 7 700 $ - 96 200 $ for a Leukemia treatment package in Turkey, depending on the clinic and your situation. Turquie Santé helps you choose verified clinics and qualified doctors for your Leukemia treatment, and this guide covers everything you need to know about the procedure.

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Between 7 700 $ - 96 200 $

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Pauline M.
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A mastectomy is not just an operation. Before going through it, I had a lot of doubts. After the operation, it took time to recover and to get used to my changed body. Some days were harder than others. Throughout that period, the Turquie Santé team ..Read more


15/06/2026
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I had a PET scan at Hisar Intercontinental. The examination went smoothly, and the staff were professional. I just found the wait for the results a little long.


06/05/2026
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very satisfied with the care and quality and competence of the doctors. I have to come back in a few months to continue my care.


17/03/2026
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I would like to thank the entire Turquie Santé team as well as the Acıbadem Clinic for their warm welcome and great professionalism. The care for my Hodgkin's disease was excellent, from the first consultation to the medical follow-up. I received car..Read more


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I would like to share my experience with Turquie Santé and Memorial Clinic and to thank the coordinator Emily, who took the time to explain every step to me — she speaks French, which was great. She arranged a teleconsultation with Dr. Akin Yildiz, a..Read more


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very well in general, my father is better after the success of the removal of his brain tumor, I congratulate the doctor Sultan Tarlaci and Kevin who organized everything for me, except the day of my arrival at the airport I struggled to find the dri..Read more


11/02/2026
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I thank the platform Turquie Santé for organizing my medical stay in Turkey. The hotel was comfortable, the interpreter was always there when needed, and my coordinator Emily really made a difference—present at every step, available and reassuring wh..Read more


10/02/2026
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Jason D.
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It's been a few months now, and I'm finally taking the time to share my experience. As a patient coming from Canada, I was accompanied by Turquie Santé for immunotherapy treatment in Istanbul. At the beginning, the coordinator Sophia was very present..Read more


04/02/2026
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Emily White

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.

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Medically reviewed by : Doç. Dr. Mustafa Emre ERCİN

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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.

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Certifications :

JCI - Joint Commission International HISAR INTERCONTINENTAL
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) HISAR INTERCONTINENTAL
HISAR INTERCONTINENTAL
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Prof.Dr.Süleyman Alıcı

Prof.Dr.Süleyman Alıcı

36 years of experience
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
ASSOC PROF. GÖRKEM TÜRKKAN M.D.

ASSOC PROF. GÖRKEM TÜRKKAN M.D.

17 years of experience
Verified CV: Radiation Oncology. Medical training at Gülhane Military Medical Academy and Zonguldak Karaelmas (Bülent Ecevit) University Faculty of Medicine, completed in 2009; Radiation Oncology specialization at Trakya University. He received the title of ... Read more
4.4 / 5
4.4(221 Reviews)

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International Organization for Standardization (ISO) LOKMAN HEKIM ISTANBUL
JCI - Joint Commission International LOKMAN HEKIM ISTANBUL
LOKMAN HEKIM ISTANBUL
Istanbul, Turkey
Prof. Dr. Osman İLHAN

Prof. Dr. Osman İLHAN

48 years of experience
Dr. Orhan ŞENCAN

Dr. Orhan ŞENCAN

38 years of experience
Main Specialty : Medical Oncology and Internal Medicine SpecialistYears of Experience : 27 years.Notable Education : Hacettepe University (Faculty of Medicine),Ankara Training Hospital (Internal Medicine Specialization),Ankara University (Associate ... Read more
4.7 / 5
4.7(69 Reviews)

Certifications :

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) MEMORIAL Şişli
JCI - Joint Commission International MEMORIAL Şişli
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Mehmet Akif Öztürk

Mehmet Akif Öztürk

14 years of experience
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Prof. Betül Tavil

Prof. Betül Tavil

20 years of experience
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
4.5 / 5
4.5(34 Reviews)

Certifications :

JCI - Joint Commission International LIV Vadistanbul
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) LIV Vadistanbul
LIV Vadistanbul
Istanbul, Turkey
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat Ayhan

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Murat Ayhan

19 years of experience
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
4.4 / 5
4.4(11 Reviews)
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Certifications :

JCI - Joint Commission International LIV Ulus
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) LIV Ulus
LIV Ulus
Istanbul, Turkey
Prof. Dr. Emre Merdan Fayda

Prof. Dr. Emre Merdan Fayda

24 years of experience
Main Specialty : Oncology Years of Experience : 24 years. Notable Education : İstanbul University, İstanbul Medical Faculty, Bachelor’s Degree (1993-1999); İstanbul University Oncology Institute, Assoc. Prof. (2012-.....); Stereotactic Radiotherapy, ... Read more
Asst. Prof. Dr. Meltem Topalgökçeli Selam

Asst. Prof. Dr. Meltem Topalgökçeli Selam

21 years of experience
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
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4.7(1 Reviews)

Certifications :

JCI - Joint Commission International HIZMET By Memorial
International Organization for Standardization (ISO) HIZMET By Memorial
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Dr. Gülsüm ÇEBİ

Dr. Gülsüm ÇEBİ

4.0 / 5
4.0(2 Reviews)

Certifications :

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) ACIBADEM
JCI - Joint Commission International ACIBADEM
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Dr. Ayşe Sagduyu Kocaman

Dr. Ayşe Sagduyu Kocaman

30 years of experience
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Different types of leukemia

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 95%, 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.

Related medical articles

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 of leukemia treatment depends on the type of leukemia (acute lymphoblastic, acute myeloid, chronic lymphocytic or chronic myeloid),its stage and genetic features, the treatment protocol chosen, the length of hospitalization and how the patient responds. No single price or percentage saving compared with other countries can be stated reliably.

Treatment may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy (for example tyrosine kinase inhibitors in chronic myeloid leukemia),immunotherapy, radiation therapy and stem cell transplantation, which can be autologous (using the patient's own cells) or allogeneic (from a donor). Some patients with slow-growing chronic leukemia may not need immediate treatment. The treatment plan is decided by the hematologist after diagnostic tests such as blood tests, bone marrow examination and genetic analysis.

A personalized quote is provided after the medical file has been reviewed. Ask for it to be itemized (diagnostics, drugs, hospital stay, transplant-related costs, follow-up) and clarify what is billed separately.

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.

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