What is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia?

Description of the disease

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a malignant blood disorder characterized by an excess of mature lymphocytes in the blood and bone marrow. These lymphocytes gradually accumulate, displacing healthy hematopoietic cells.

Classification

• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia with low cell count
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia with high cell count

Symptoms

Symptoms of CLL may include enlarged lymph nodes, fatigue, weight loss, increased sweating, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Causes

The exact causes of CLL are unknown. Some risk factors include genetic predisposition and environmental exposure.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of CLL includes blood tests, lymph node and bone marrow biopsies, and imaging procedures.

Treatment

Treatment for CLL may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, drug therapy, and bone marrow transplantation.

Prevention

There are no specific ways to prevent CLL. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and active living, may help reduce the risk of the disease.

Doctor

CLL treatment is provided by an oncologist-hematologist.