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Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, or CML, develops from white
blood cells, which help defend the body against germs. The
two types of cells that chronic myelogenous leukemia develops
from are granulocytes and monocytes. Granulocytes, also known
as neutrophils or polys, kill most bacteria. Monocytes kill
more resistant bacteria and are essential for effective function
of lymphocytes, which produce antibodies.
In Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, the cells look mature but
they are not completely normal. They live too long and this
causes a build-up of certain kinds of white blood cells. Chronic
myelogenous leukemia permits greater numbers of more mature,
functional cells to be made, since it progresses more slowly.
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Symptoms
Chronic myelogenous leukemia symptoms, which typically develop
gradually, include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, shortness
of breath, and a pale complexion due to anemia. A conclusive
diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia requires examinations
of both blood and marrow cells. A blood sample is examined
under a microscope and from it, the proportion of white blood
cells circulating in the blood stream is determined. Identification
of abnormally high numbers of fully matured and maturing white
blood cells (myelocytes and neutrophils) is the first step
toward a diagnosis of chronic myelogenous. The diagnosis is
confirmed if a marrow sample reveals cells containing the
abnormal Philadelphia chromosome.
In most chronic myelogenous leukemia patients, the chronic
phase of the disease transforms into a phase that becomes
more difficult to manage and more troublesome for the patient.
This second phase is called the "accelerated phase."
During the accelerated phase, the numbers of white blood cells
and immature or blast cells in the bloodstream increase. The
third phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia is blast crisis,
which is like a very aggressive acute leukemia.
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Treatment
Bone marrow transplant is the most effective treatment for
chronic myelogenous leukemia. For patients who either cannot
receive a transplant or elect not to, treatment relies on
chemotherapy. Some patients may receive a combination of chemotherapy
and a bone marrow transplant.
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Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
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