Final answer:
The etiological agents of leukemias include genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the abnormal proliferation and function of leukocytes. This overproduction can result from either the myeloid or lymphoid line, resulting in different types of leukemia. The reduced immune functionality due to these dysfunctional leukocytes makes the body prone to various infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The etiological agents of leukemias can include a variety of factors. Leukemia refers to a cancer characterized by an overproduction of abnormal leukocytes (white blood cells). These cancerous cells can originate from the myeloid or lymphoid line, leading to types such as myelocytic leukemia or lymphocytic leukemia. In chronic leukemia, mature leukocytes accumulate and fail to die. Alternatively, acute leukemia is marked by an excess of immature leukocytes. These dysfunctional cells impede proper immune responses, leaving the body vulnerable to infections.
Contributors to leukemia can be both genetic and environmental. Certain genetic predispositions, along with environmental exposures like ionizing radiation or certain chemicals, can initiate leukemia. Treatments such as chemotherapy, while aimed at cancer cells, can further decrease the immune system's effectiveness by reducing leukocyte counts, hence susceptible to opportunistic infections such as those caused by Staphylococcus or Candida.