Swelling of the abdomen (belly)
Abnormal white blood cells produced in leukemia can collect in the spleen and liver, making those organs bigger. It may be detected as a stomach fullness or swelling of the belly. These organs are usually covered by the lower ribs but the doctor can often feel them when they are enlarged.
Swelling of the abdomen put pressure on the stomach, intestines, spleen, and other abdominal organs. In advanced stages, it may cause buildup of fluid in the belly. These changes cause specific symptoms such as abdominal pain, poor appetite, and weight loss.