Chronic lymphocytic leukemia(CLL) is a punch in of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
It can progress slowly and may not cause many symptoms.
Although it is treatable, its not considered to be curable.
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Treatment can become necessary when symptoms develop or the disease begins to progress.
Treatment, whether watchful waiting or active treatment, is tailored to each person.
Some people may experience anticipatory anxiety about CLL progressing and have fear and worry about their future health.
The stress of living with a chronic illness can lead to depression and cause a sense of helplessness.
Connecting with support groups, therapists, and counselors can help cope with this chronic illness.
The International Workshop on CLL has published guidelines.
At least one of the following must be present to determine active CLL.
However, improving overall health is important.
Progressive CLL Symptoms and Stages
As CLL advances, a range of symptoms may be present.
The goal of treatment is to manage the disease and reduce symptoms.
Exactly which treatment will be ordered depends on many factors and is individualized to the person receiving them.
These medications target cancer cells with specific mutations.
They are more likely to spare healthy cells from being damaged than systemic treatments like chemotherapy.
Monoclonal antibodies target specific proteins on cancer cells, marking them for destruction by the immune system.
Rituxan (rituximab) is an example of a monoclonal antibody used to treat CLL.
Chemotherapy can also affect healthy cells.
Clinical trials are an option for people with CLL.
Many trials examine new treatment molecules or novel combinations of treatments.
Summary
CLL is a slowly progressing cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow.
It often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages.
It is not considered curable.
Early-stage CLL usually doesn’t require immediate treatment, as starting therapy early doesn’t improve survival rates.
However, as CLL advances and symptoms worsen, treatment becomes necessary.
Treatment decisions are based on disease stage, symptoms, and overall health.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular checkups are crucial for managing early-stage CLL.
Bewarder M, Stilgenbauer S, Thurner L, Kaddu-Mulindwa D.Current treatment options in CLL.Cancers.
Mahla RS, ed.European Journal of Cancer Care.
2018;131(25):2745-2760. doi:10.1182/blood-2017-09-806398
American Cancer Society.Signs and symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
