Chronic Lymphoblastic Leukemia (CLL) Treatment

The exact cause of the majority of CLL cases is undetermined. However, there are certain risk factors that, when present, may increase the likelihood of developing CLL:

• Exposure to pesticides and certain other chemicals
• Family history of leukemia or other blood malignancies
• Advanced age

CLL is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal lymphocytes, specifically B cells, which cannot function properly. These lymphocytes take space and resources away from other blood cells, such as red blood cells and platelets, leading to a compromised immune system. Therefore, patients are subject to frequent and severe infections.

CLL typically progresses very slowly. Many patients are not even aware they have the disease until they have a routine blood cell count that shows a problem. Even if symptoms appear, patients often attribute them to another cause, especially since the majority of CLL patient are elderly and often have other medical conditions.

Signs and symptoms of CLL include:

• Frequent infections
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever
• Enlarged and/or painful spleen
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Night sweats

A precise diagnosis of the exact CLL type is crucial for effective treatment. Sheba Medical Cancer Center is proud to have many high-tech diagnostic techniques available, along with expert, experienced staff, for accurate diagnoses. These techniques include complete cytogenetic profiles with advanced equipment.