Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Also called CML or Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia is the most common form of leukemia (not only in India but all over the world) and is a chronic disorder of the bone marrow. In chronic myeloid leukemia, white blood cells grow abnormally, which leads to an increase in the size of the spleen.

Symptoms

The typical symptoms could include fatigue, paleness, weight loss, repeated infections, and fever for more than three weeks etc. Nose bleeds, easy bruising and bone or joint pains could be early symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for people with chronic myeloid leukemia varies from case to case depending on various factors. Currently, the most frequently used treatment options include Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs), Bone Marrow Transplant and Chemotherapy.

The choice of therapy depends upon the phase of chronic myeloid leukemia, age and the patient's preference. It is also important to closely monitor the progression of the disease and the patient’s reaction to medication.
CML makes people sick primarily by interfering with normal bone marrow function. The leukemia cells replace and crowd out the normal cells of the bone marrow, thereby causing low blood cell counts. This insufficient number of red blood cells results in a condition called anemia, which causes a person to be tired and pale. Lack of platelets can make you more susceptible to bleeding and bruising, especially in the skin, nose and gums.




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