Leukemia is a cancer of the cells that produce blood products. Lymphocytes are specific blood components involved with fighting infection (by producing Proteins called globulins or antibodies). Chronic lymphocytic Leukemia is a cancer
of the white blood-cell-producing line in the bone marrow
where lymphocytes originate. As the name "chronic" implies,
this disease progresses
slowly.
Usually occurs in those above 50
years old
Fatigue
Enlarged lymph glands
Enlarged liver
Enlarged
spleen
Unknown
Laboratories:
Elevated white blood cell count
(usually above 20,000)
Manual blood differential
(looking under a microscope) shows small and immature
lymphocytes.
Low gamma globulin levels (lower
antibody level) may occur.
Bone marrow biopsy shows
infiltration with small lymphocytes. In addition, special
testing is done on the bone marrow
sample.
Early disease -- usually no
treatment
Later disease
- Chlorambucil (a chemotherapy medication)
Bone marrow transplant in the rare,
young patient may be
considered
Even though this is a type of
cancer, many individuals live years with the disease because
it tends to progress slowly. How long someone lives usually
depends on how much the disease has spread.
