CLL Basics
What does CLL stand for?
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Name one common symptom of CLL.
Fatigue
Painless swollen lymph nodes
Frequent infections
What age group is usually affected in CLL?
Older adults, above 60 yrs old
Which blood cell count is commonly elevated in CLL?
Lymphocyte count
Does every person with CLL need treatment immediately?
No
Is CLL generally slow-growing or fast-growing?
Generally slow growing
Can someone have CLL without noticeable symptoms?
Yes
Is CLL more common in men or women?
Men
What are smudge cells and why are they significant in CLL?
Fragile lymphocytes disrupted during preparation of a blood smear.
Smudge cells are found in nearly all blood smears of patients with CLL, therefore, it is a common characteristic of CLL
What is the term for monitoring CLL without starting treatment right away?
Watchful waiting or active surveillance
What type of cell is affected in CLL?
How is CLL usually diagnosed?
CBC
Blood Smear
Flow Cytometry
Does having a close relative with CLL increase risk?
Yes. Family history may increase of CLL.
Which test identifies the characteristic B-cell markers that help confirm CLL?
Flow cytometry
Name one factor that helps determine when and how CLL is treated.
Symptoms, disease progression, genetic test results, overall health, and patient preferences
What organs are enlarged in CLL?
Lymph Nodes, Spleen, and Liver
Name two or more possible symptoms of more advanced or active CLL.
Shortness of breath, severe fatigue, frequent or severe infections, easy bruising, bleeding gums, frequent nosebleeds, and enlarged spleen or liver.
Is CLL common in children?
No. CLL is very rare in children.
Name one blood count abnormality that can develop in advanced CLL.
Anemia
Thrombocytopenia
What is a treatment used for the highest stage of CLL?
Intensive chemotherapy
Bone Marrow transplant