Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
White blood cell-related cancer, known as chronic lymphocytic leukemia, develops slowly over the years.
It rarely affects those under the age of 40 and primarily affects those over the age of 60.
Other forms of leukemia, such as chronic myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and acute myeloid leukemia, are distinct from CLL.
Indications of chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Early symptoms of CLL are uncommon, and a blood test performed for another reason may be the only way to detect it.
As symptoms emerge, they could consist of the following:
- Recurring infections
- Anemia causes continual exhaustion, breathlessness, and a pale complexion.
- Bruising and bleeding more frequently than usual
- Increased temperature
- Morning sweats
- Enlarged glands in your groin, armpits, or neck
- Discomfort and swelling in your stomach
- Unintentional weight loss
It’s a sound idea to consult a doctor and have them evaluated because these symptoms may have causes other than cancer.
Complications
Bone marrow overproduces undeveloped lymphocytes that make up white blood cells in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), leading to several issues, including an elevated risk of contracting infections, persistent fatigue, enlarged glands in the neck, armpits or groin, and unusual bleeding or bruising.
Therapies for chronic myeloid leukemia
You might not require immediate treatment because CLL advances gradually and frequently have no symptoms at first.
The main treatments include:
- Chemotherapy
- Cancer drugs
- Radiotherapy
A new type of therapy involves a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, in which your body gets donated cells called stem cells so that you can begin to create healthy white blood cells. Only some people should receive this type of intense therapy.
In most cases, treatment only slows the progression of CLL rather than curing it altogether. If necessary, treatment gets repeated.
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022