Prolymphocytic leukemia

Prolymphocytic leukemia (PLL) is a type of leukemia, a cancer that affects the white blood cells. It is characterized by the overproduction of abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. There are two types of PLL: B-cell PLL and T-cell PLL, which are distinguished by the type of lymphocyte that is affected.

Symptoms

The symptoms of prolymphocytic leukemia can vary, but may include fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, the disease may be discovered during a routine blood test before any symptoms have developed.

Causes

The exact cause of prolymphocytic leukemia is unknown. However, it is believed to be related to genetic mutations that occur in the lymphocytes. These mutations cause the cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, leading to the development of leukemia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of prolymphocytic leukemia is typically made through a combination of physical examination, blood tests, and bone marrow biopsy. The presence of a high number of prolymphocytes in the blood or bone marrow is a key indicator of the disease.

Treatment

Treatment for prolymphocytic leukemia typically involves chemotherapy, with the goal of destroying the abnormal lymphocytes and slowing the progression of the disease. In some cases, a stem cell transplant may be considered.

Prognosis

The prognosis for prolymphocytic leukemia varies depending on a number of factors, including the patient's age, overall health, and the specific characteristics of their disease. In general, however, PLL is considered to be a very aggressive form of leukemia with a poor prognosis.

See also

• Leukemia
• Lymphocyte
• Chemotherapy
• Stem cell transplant

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