CLL, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia, affects the blood and bone marrow. It is the most common type of leukemia in adults, especially older ones. In this blog post, we will describe what causes CLL, what is the common symptom, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment options are available.
Despite the fact that the exact cause of CLL is unknown, certain genetic mutations cause white blood cells called lymphocytes to grow and multiply abnormally. There are many factors that may increase the risk of developing CLL, including: abnormal lymphocytes may crowd out normal blood cells and interfere with their functions.
Family history of blood and bone marrow cancers
Exposure to certain chemicals and radiation, such as Agent Orange
Ethnicity (Caucasians are more likely to develop CLL than other races)
Older age (CLL is more common in people over 70 years old)
Low immunity or a condition that causes excess lymphocytes, such as monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL)
Many people with CLL do not have any symptoms at first. The symptoms may develop gradually as the disease progresses. Some of the common symptoms of CLL include:
Enlarged, but painless, lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
Fatigue and weakness
Fever and night sweats
Pain in the upper left side of the abdomen, which may be caused by an enlarged spleen
Weight loss and loss of appetite
Shortness of breath and frequent infections
Bleeding or bruising easily
CLL is diagnosed based on the physical examination and various blood tests. Some of the tests that are used to diagnose CLL are:
A complete blood count (CBC) measures the number and structure of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a blood sample. A high number of B cells, one type of lymphocyte, may indicate CLL.
An immunophenotyping test, or flow cytometry, confirms the diagnosis of CLL and predicts how aggressive the disease will be based on the type and characteristics of the lymphocytes in a blood sample.
The fluorescence in situ hybridization test examines the chromosomes inside lymphocytes to determine the prognosis and best treatment option for each patient with CLL.
Biopsy and aspiration of bone marrow: This procedure involves removing a small sample of bone marrow from the hip or chest and examining it under a microscope.
Ultrasound, CT scan, or PET scan: These tests are used to find enlarged lymph nodes or organs affected by CLL, such as the spleen or liver.
Several factors influence the treatment of CLL, including the stage of the disease, its symptoms, the patient's overall health, and his or her preferences. In early-stage CLL, patients may not need immediate treatment, but their doctors monitor them closely. When the disease becomes symptomatic or shows signs of deterioration, treatment is usually started. CLL has a number of treatment options, including:
In addition to chemotherapy, monoclonal antibodies, and targeted therapies can all be used to treat CLL. By interfering with the growth and division of cancer cells, chemotherapy drugs kill them. By targeting specific molecules or pathways involved in the survival and growth of cancer cells, monoclonal antibodies help the immune system destroy the cancer cells. It is possible to administer these drugs either orally or intravenously, either alone or in combination.
It can improve blood cell counts and reduce symptoms of CLL, but it cannot cure the disease and increases infection risks. Splenectomy: This surgery removes the spleen, which may be enlarged or damaged from CLL.
It involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor. This procedure has the possibility of curing some people with CLL, but it also carries risks and complications. It is usually reserved for younger and fit patients with a suitable donor and who have not responded to other treatments.
There is no known way to prevent CLL, but some lifestyle changes may help to reduce the risk or improve the quality of life of people with CLL. Some of the tips are:
Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Drink plenty of water and limit alcohol and caffeine intake
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
Get enough rest and sleep
Manage stress and practice relaxation techniques
Seek emotional and social support from family, friends, or support groups
Follow the doctor’s advice and take the prescribed medications as directed
Report any new or worsening symptoms to the doctor promptly
Even though CLL is an incurable disease, it can be treated and managed with proper care and treatment. With advancements in research and therapy, many people with CLL can live longer and healthier lives. Talk to your doctor or health care provider if you have any questions or concerns about CLL.
