Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is one of the most common types of adult blood cancers, affecting the white blood cells (lymphocytes). It is a form of malignant blood disease that progresses slowly and often remains undetected for years. Patients usually discover it during routine health check-ups or blood tests. Treatment from an experienced hematologist at the best hematology clinic or hematology center ensures accurate diagnosis, timely management, and long-term control of the disease.
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.
With vast experience in blood cancer treatment, blood disorder treatment, bone marrow transplant, stem cell transplant, autologous transplant, and hematopoietic stem cell transplant, he is regarded as one of the leading blood cancer specialists in the region. Dr. Dhakate has successfully treated patients with leukemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, chronic myeloid leukemia, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, anemia, bleeding disorders, coagulation disorders, and myelodysplastic syndromes. Known for his compassionate and evidence-based approach, his clinic is considered among the best hematology centers in Nagpur for advanced care including biological therapy for cancer, CAR-T cell therapy, and ablation therapy.
What is Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia?
CLL is a type of leukemia where abnormal lymphocytes are produced in the bone marrow and blood. Unlike acute leukemias, CLL grows gradually but can weaken the immune system, making patients prone to infections. In advanced cases, it can progress to more aggressive diseases requiring intensive therapy such as bone marrow transplant, stem cell transplant, or CAR-T cell therapy.
Symptoms of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
CLL may not show signs in the early stages. When present, symptoms may include:
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss and night sweats
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
- Enlarged spleen or liver causing abdominal pain
- Frequent infections due to immunodeficiency
- Easy bruising and bleeding (linked to thrombocytopenia, coagulation disorders, or bleeding disorders)
- Anemia-related symptoms such as pale skin and shortness of breath
Causes and Risk Factors of CLL
While the exact cause of CLL is unknown, several risk factors contribute:
- Genetic predisposition and family history of myeloproliferative disorders or benign blood diseases
- Mutations in lymphocyte DNA
- Exposure to environmental toxins or radiation
- Weakened immunity and certain autoimmune disorders
- Advanced age (most common in adults above 55 years)
Diagnosis of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
A hematology doctor may recommend the following tests:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – detects abnormal lymphocyte count
- Bone marrow biopsy or bone marrow donation sample testing – to confirm marrow infiltration
- Flow cytometry and cytogenetic tests – to study abnormal lymphocytes
- Hemoglobin electrophoresis – to rule out associated conditions such as thalassemia
- Coagulation tests – to assess bleeding or clotting issues (important for patients with deep vein thrombosis or coagulation disorders)
Treatment of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Treatment depends on the stage of disease and overall health of the patient.
Watchful Waiting
Early-stage CLL with no symptoms may only require regular monitoring by a hematologist.
Targeted Drug Therapy
Medications that specifically attack cancer cells are widely used in CLL management.
Chemotherapy & Biological Therapy for Cancer
Used in advanced stages or when targeted drugs are insufficient.
Bone Marrow Transplant & Stem Cell Transplant
- Autologous transplant – using patient’s own stem cells.
- Allogeneic bone marrow transplant – donor stem cells replace diseased marrow.
This approach is often considered in aggressive or relapsed CLL.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT)
Helps restore healthy blood formation after destroying cancer cells.
Advanced Therapies
- CAR-T cell therapy – promising results in resistant cases.
- Ablation therapy – to destroy diseased bone marrow before transplant.
FAQs on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
- Is CLL curable?
While many patients live long lives with CLL, complete cure is rare. However, bone marrow transplant or stem cell transplant may offer curative potential in select cases. - Can CLL turn into aggressive leukemia?
Yes, in some patients CLL can transform into a more severe type of lymphoma or leukemia. - Do all CLL patients need immediate treatment?
No. Many patients are monitored without active treatment until symptoms worsen. - What is the role of bone marrow transplant in CLL?
It is considered in advanced or treatment-resistant cases, similar to bone marrow transplant for leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. - Can CLL cause blood clotting or bleeding issues?
Yes. Patients may develop coagulation disorders, thrombocytopenia, and deep vein thrombosis, requiring specialized care.
