Understanding Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow. It is the most common leukemia in adults.

“CLL – the good cancer” – a message given by many doctors when they tell patients they have Chronic lymphocytic leukemia. CLL is not “the good cancer”. No cancer is a good cancer and it’s quite a shock to patients to be diagnosed with cancer when more than 60% have no symptoms at diagnosis. Men over fifty are diagnosed twice as often as women. Some doctors call it ”the old man´s disease”.

However, any adult can be diagnosed with CLL at any age. Although CLL is the most common leukemia, it is considered a rare disease with only 4 or 5 people diagnosed out of 100,000. CLL cannot normally be cured, but treatment can help control the condition. Some people with CLL can live for years without treatment, but over time, the majority may need to be treated. CLL develops slowly and tends to get worse slowly, over time.

Generally, CLL progresses slowly, survival can extend for decades even though treatments are not usually curative. The good news is CLL treatments have evolved significantly in recent years, offering new and more effective options for patients. This includes use of targeted therapies and immunotherapies.

There also are numerous clinical trials around the world that are very successful, including some that are right here at ECHO! Click below to learn about two clinical trials for CLL that we are currently offering.

Below are some facts and figures about CLL. Click here to learn more.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of CLL

People can’t feel that their bone marrow is making too many white blood cells and that these cells called B-lymphocytes are crowding out normal blood cells. Diagnosis is made through a blood sample and it is often found during routine blood work. CLL usually develops slowly and the majority of patients have a period of Watch and Wait or Active Surveillance before treatment is needed. About 30% of people diagnosed with CLL will never need treatment and continue Active Surveillance. 60% will need treatment at some point.

The following symptoms may be experienced at diagnosis and as the disease develops:

• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, stomach or groin
• More frequent infections, night sweats, fevers
• Bruising
• Unexplained weight loss
• Pain or fullness below the ribs due to a swollen spleen

Our physicians have extensive experience treating CLL and offer the newest advancements in care. If you or someone you love is concerned or has been diagnosed with CLL, please contact us. We welcome new patients and will get you scheduled within weeks. Call our new patient line at (860) 251-9998. No referral is needed.