Chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Created by

Muthalagu Ramanathan MD (Oncology), Associate Professor

Dr. Muthalagu Ramanathan MD (Oncology), Associate Professor

Overview

Description

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is a slow-growing hematologic malignancy characterized by clonal proliferation of mature B lymphocytes. It commonly affects older adults and may present incidentally with lymphocytosis or with fatigue, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, or recurrent infections. Diagnosis involves peripheral smear showing smudge cells, flow cytometry (CD5+, CD19+, CD23+ B-cells), and bone marrow evaluation. Prognosis varies based on cytogenetics (e.g., del17p). Early-stage disease may require observation, while advanced or symptomatic cases are treated with chemoimmunotherapy or targeted agents like BTK inhibitors.

Author

Author image

Dr. Muthalagu Ramanathan MD (Oncology), Associate Professor

Director - Myelodysplastic Syndrome Program, Medical Co-Director - Blood & Marrow Transplant Program.

Director, Myelodysplastic Syndrome Program, Medical Co-Director, Blood & Marrow Transplant Program, University of Massachusetts Medical School, UMass Memorial Medical Center, USA