Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)
About Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)
Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is the abnormal growth of cells in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is the soft spongy material contained in the center of the bones. There are several types of white blood cells normally produced by the bone marrow. These include neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes and monoctes. This over-growth of cells prevents the normal production of normal blood cells. Ninety percent of cases come from a specific genetic mutation called the Philadelphia chromosome. The disease is most common in middle-aged individuals.Symptoms
Symptoms include fever without a infection, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin, frequent nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. Patients may experience fullness in the left upper abdomen from enlargement of the spleen.Tests & Diagnostics
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is often made when an abnormal blood count is noted on the lab test called a CBC. Ultimately, a bone marrow biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis.Common tests: Bone marrow biopsy, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Partial throboplastin time (PTT), X-ray, Prothrombin (PT).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment will include a combination of chemotherapies. Some patients may be selected for bone marrow transplantation. Other potential treatments include interferon, imatinib (Gleevec), dasatinib (Sprycel), and nilotinib (Tasigna).Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Family Practice · Hematology and Oncology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML).