What Is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia?
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that starts in the white blood cells called lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection. In CLL, the lymphocytes become cancerous and grow out of control. This can lead to a number of health problems, including:
* Anemia: CLL can cause the bone marrow to produce fewer red blood cells, leading to anemia. This can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
* Infections: CLL can also make it harder for the body to fight infection. This can lead to more frequent and severe infections, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and urinary tract infections.
* Bleeding: CLL can also lead to bleeding problems, such as easy bruising and nosebleeds. This is because the cancerous lymphocytes can damage the platelets, which are needed for blood to clot.
* Splenomegaly: CLL can cause the spleen to enlarge (splenomegaly). This can cause pain in the upper left abdomen, as well as a feeling of fullness or bloating.
* Hepatomegaly: CLL can also cause the liver to enlarge (hepatomegaly). This can cause pain in the upper right abdomen, as well as a feeling of fullness or bloating.
* Lymphadenopathy: CLL can cause the lymph nodes to enlarge (lymphadenopathy). This can cause painless lumps in the neck, armpits, and groin.
CLL is a chronic disease, meaning that it lasts for a long time. However, it is often a slow-growing cancer, and many people with CLL live for many years with few or no symptoms. Treatment for CLL depends on the stage of the disease and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:
* Watchful waiting: In some cases, CLL may not require treatment right away. The doctor may recommend watchful waiting, which means monitoring the disease closely for any signs of progression.
* Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a type of drug treatment that kills cancer cells. It can be given orally or intravenously (IV).
* Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a type of drug treatment that targets specific proteins involved in the growth of cancer cells. Targeted therapy can be given orally or IV.
* Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that helps the body's own immune system fight cancer. Immunotherapy can be given orally, IV, or as a shot.
* Stem cell transplant: A stem cell transplant is a procedure that replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy bone marrow. This can be used to treat CLL that is not responding to other treatments.
CLL is a serious disease, but it is important to remember that there are many treatment options available. With proper treatment, many people with CLL live for many years with few or no symptoms.