- CANCER HELPLINE: 1800-22-1951
- 91 7317418888
- contact@drharshatreya.com
- CANCER HELPLINE: 1800-22-1951
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell essential for immune function. CLL typically progresses slowly and is most common in adults over the age of 60. Unlike acute forms of leukemia, CLL may not cause symptoms initially and is often discovered through routine blood tests. As it progresses, CLL can lead to significant health issues and may require treatment based on symptoms and the rate of progression.
CLL is a chronic condition, and many patients live for years without symptoms. The prognosis depends on factors such as age, stage at diagnosis, and response to treatment.
Managing CLL involves regular monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and support. Physical activity, a balanced diet, and reducing infection risks are essential for maintaining well-being. For patients with immune system suppression, avoiding infections is critical, and vaccinations may be recommended to prevent illnesses.
In the early stages, CLL may not present noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms can develop and may include:
Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Swelling in lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin.
Fatigue: A common symptom in CLL due to anemia or general impact on the immune system.
Frequent Infections: Due to a weakened immune system, patients may experience recurring infections.
Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite: Unexplained weight loss and reduced appetite are often associated with CLL.
Night Sweats: Profuse sweating at night is a common symptom in advanced stages.
Fever: Persistent or recurrent low-grade fever may occur without any apparent infection.
Diagnosing CLL involves blood tests, bone marrow exams, and imaging tests:
Blood Tests: A complete blood count (CBC) often shows elevated lymphocytes. Other tests identify CLL cells and determine their characteristics.
Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: This test evaluates the extent of leukemia cells in the bone marrow.
Flow Cytometry and Immunophenotyping: These specialized tests identify markers on CLL cells, helping distinguish CLL from other types of leukemia.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, and other imaging help detect enlarged lymph nodes or organs affected by CLL.
Treatment for CLL depends on the disease stage, overall health, and symptoms. Some patients with early-stage CLL may not require immediate treatment and can be monitored through “watchful waiting” until symptoms develop.
Watchful Waiting: For early, asymptomatic CLL, doctors may recommend regular monitoring without active treatment.
Chemotherapy: Drugs such as fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and chlorambucil are used to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often combined with other treatments to enhance effectiveness.
Targeted Therapy: This includes drugs like ibrutinib, venetoclax, and idelalisib, which target specific proteins in cancer cells to stop their growth. These therapies are generally better tolerated than traditional chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy: Monoclonal antibodies, such as rituximab and obinutuzumab, help the immune system recognize and attack CLL cells. CAR T-cell therapy, a newer option, involves modifying the patient’s T cells to attack cancer cells.
Stem Cell Transplant: For younger patients or those with aggressive CLL, a stem cell transplant may be considered. This involves high-dose chemotherapy followed by the infusion of healthy stem cells to rebuild the immune system.
Radiation Therapy: In cases where the spleen or lymph nodes are enlarged, radiation may be used to shrink these areas and relieve symptoms.
© 2024 Harshvardhan Atreya. All Rights Reserved.