Leukemia, lymphocytic, chronic
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is characterized by the overproduction of abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. CLL is the most common form of leukemia in adults, particularly affecting older individuals.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
CLL is a clonal malignancy of B lymphocytes. These cells accumulate in the blood, bone marrow, lymph nodes, and spleen. The disease is characterized by the slow progression of these abnormal cells, which can lead to immune system dysfunction and other complications.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Common symptoms of CLL include:
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Frequent infections
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of CLL typically involves blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC) and flow cytometry, to identify the presence of abnormal lymphocytes. A bone marrow biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Staging[edit | edit source]
CLL is staged using the Rai or Binet staging systems, which help determine the extent of the disease and guide treatment decisions.
Rai Staging System[edit | edit source]
- Stage 0: Lymphocytosis only
- Stage I: Lymphocytosis with enlarged lymph nodes
- Stage II: Lymphocytosis with enlarged spleen and/or liver
- Stage III: Lymphocytosis with anemia
- Stage IV: Lymphocytosis with thrombocytopenia
Binet Staging System[edit | edit source]
- Stage A: Fewer than three areas of lymphoid tissue involved
- Stage B: Three or more areas of lymphoid tissue involved
- Stage C: Anemia and/or thrombocytopenia present
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for CLL depends on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. Options may include:
- Watchful waiting for early-stage CLL
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy, such as monoclonal antibodies (e.g., rituximab)
- Immunotherapy
- Stem cell transplant in certain cases
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for CLL varies widely. Some patients may live for many years with minimal symptoms, while others may experience a more aggressive form of the disease. Factors influencing prognosis include genetic mutations, such as the presence of the TP53 mutation, and the patient's response to initial treatment.
Research and Developments[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research in CLL focuses on understanding the genetic and molecular basis of the disease, developing new targeted therapies, and improving existing treatment protocols.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Leukemia
- Lymphocytes
- Bone marrow
- National Cancer Institute. "Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Treatment (PDQ ) Patient Version." Retrieved from [1]
- American Cancer Society. "Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)." Retrieved from [2]
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Leukemia, lymphocytic, chronic is a rare disease.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
