Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is a type of blood cancer that originates in the lymphoid cells of the bone marrow. It is more commonly diagnosed in adults, particularly those over the age of 60. CLL progresses slowly compared to other types of leukemia.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of CLL is not well understood, but certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including genetic predispositions, family history of leukemia, and exposure to certain chemicals.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of CLL include fatigue, fever, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes. Symptoms can vary based on the stage and progression of the disease.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to check for abnormal white blood cells and a bone marrow biopsy to confirm the presence of leukemia cells. Additional tests, such as imaging studies, may be used to determine the extent of the disease.

Treatment

Treatment for CLL often includes a combination of watchful waiting, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and sometimes radiation therapy. The treatment plan depends on factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and specific characteristics of the leukemia.