The classification of leukemia is based on two factors. The first type of classification is by how fast the leukemia progresses. In acute leukemia, the abnormal blood cells are immature blood cells called blats. They can’t carry out their normal function and they multiply rapidly, worsening the disease quickly. Chronic leukemia involves mature blood cells. They replicate or accumulate more slowly and can function normally for a period of time. There are many types of chronic leukemias. Some produce too many cells and others because too few cells to be produced. Some forms initially produce no early symptoms and can go unnoticed or undiagnosed for years. The second type of classification is by type of white blood cell affected. Lymphocytic leukemia
