Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a type of blood cancer that originates in the bone marrow – the soft tissue inside bones responsible for producing blood cells. Unlike acute leukemias, CML develops slowly, giving doctors the chance to detect and manage it with advanced treatments. Expert care at the best hematology clinics and hematology centers plays a crucial role in ensuring better survival and improved quality of life for patients.
About Dr. Nishad Dhakate
Dr. Nishad Dhakate is a highly experienced and certified Hematologist and Hemato-Oncologist with a specialization in autologous and allogeneic blood and bone marrow transplants, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. He is well versed in the management of hematological disorders, inherited and acquired red, white, and platelet disorders and immunodeficiency disorders. His approach to treatment is comprehensive and tailored to each patient’s individual needs. He is committed to providing the best possible care to his patients and strives to stay up to date with the latest innovations in the field of Hematologist and Hemato-Oncologist.
What is Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
CML is a malignant blood disease in which abnormal white blood cells grow uncontrollably. This happens due to a genetic mutation known as the Philadelphia chromosome, which produces an abnormal protein (BCR-ABL) that drives cancer cell growth.
It is often detected incidentally during blood tests, but timely diagnosis and treatment under a skilled hematology doctor is essential to prevent progression into advanced stages.
Symptoms of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Many patients with CML do not show symptoms initially. However, some common warning signs include:
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats and low-grade fever
- Enlarged spleen causing abdominal discomfort
- Frequent infections due to reduced immunity
- Easy bruising or bleeding (related to thrombocytopenia or bleeding disorders)
- Anemia-related symptoms like pale skin and shortness of breath
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of CML is not always clear, but contributing factors include:
- Genetic mutation (Philadelphia chromosome) – the primary cause of CML
- Exposure to high radiation levels
- Family history of myeloproliferative disorders or malignant blood diseases
- Rarely, progression from other blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndromes
Diagnosis of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
A hematologist uses multiple tests to confirm CML, including:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – to check for abnormal white blood cells
- Bone Marrow Biopsy & Bone Marrow Donation analysis – to study marrow function
- Hemoglobin Electrophoresis – to rule out associated conditions like thalassemia
- Coagulation tests – to detect bleeding or clotting risks (important in deep vein thrombosis and coagulation disorders)
- Genetic testing to identify the Philadelphia chromosome
Treatment Options for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Treatment depends on the phase of CML (chronic, accelerated, or blast crisis). The following approaches are widely used:
Targeted Therapy
- Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) block the abnormal BCR-ABL protein and are the first-line treatment.
Chemotherapy & Biological Therapy for Cancer
- Used when TKIs are ineffective or in advanced cases.
Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) / Stem Cell Transplant
- Considered the most effective curative option for CML.
- Types include:
- Autologous transplant – using the patient’s own stem cells
- Allogeneic bone marrow transplant – using donor cells, often after bone marrow donation
- BMT is especially important in bone marrow transplant for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT)
- Replaces diseased marrow with healthy stem cells to restore normal blood formation.
Advanced Therapies
- CAR-T cell therapy and ablation therapy are emerging options for resistant CML cases.
FAQs on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
- Can CML be completely cured?
With targeted therapies, many patients live long, healthy lives. Bone marrow transplant offers a potential cure in select cases. - How is CML different from acute leukemia?
CML progresses slowly, while acute leukemias advance rapidly and need immediate treatment. - Is bone marrow transplant always necessary for CML?
Not always. Many patients respond well to targeted drugs. BMT is considered if the disease is resistant or progresses. - Can CML cause other blood disorders?
Yes, untreated CML can lead to myelodysplastic syndromes, bleeding disorders, and immunodeficiency. - What lifestyle care is needed during CML treatment?
Balanced nutrition, regular monitoring, avoiding infections, and following doctor’s advice are essential.
