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Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia  (CLL) is also referred to as B-cell lymphocytic leukemia

It is one of the 4 major types of Leukemia.

The other major types of Leukemia are:

1.) Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

2.) Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML)

3.) Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)

This type of cancer affects the white blood cells (WBC), more specifically a lymphoctye cell called the B-Cell.  This cell is found in the bone marrow and helps fight infection

Typically and over-crowding occurs of the damaged cells that causes problems for the healthy and normal cells.  Progression of this disease can be quite slow inmost individuals. It is often very similar to small lymphocytic lymphoma. It is often seen in adults and usually seen over the age of 50

Symptoms

–  Typically no symptoms are seen until later stages
–  Enlargement of Lymph nodes
–  Enlargement of Spleen
–  Enlargement of Liver
–  Increase chance of infection
–  High White blood count

Diagnosis

–  Blood work is essential for diagnosis
–  Lymphocyte count can be quite elevated
–  Bone Marrow biopsy is helpful

Treatment

–  This cancer is often considered as incurable
–  Treatment therefore is considered as a last resort or only in some cases.

If treatment is required certain findings are typical

Treatment options

1.) Chemotherapy

FC  [Fludarabine plus cyclophosphamide]

FR  [Fludarabine plus rituximab]

FCR  [Fludarabine plus cyclophosphamide plus rituximab]

CHOP  [Cyclophosphamide plus Doxorubicin plus Vincristine plus Prednisolone]

2.) Radiation

3.) Bone marrow transplant