CLL leukemia

[Huskyz]

CLL has often been treated with various chemo 'cocktails' whose objective is remission and symptom reduction, not a cure (CLL is still not considered curable). Different than most other cancers, CLL might not be treated when first diagnosed, but treatment might wait many years before it is used. Historically and in some cases today it may never be treated. This approach has been common for years.

As with other cancers, treatments are evolving and this approach (deferring treatment for years) may be changing. Naturally treatment and results vary by individual patient and their doctor.

[frogmed]

My husband has CLL. From what we've read it isn't "Hereditary." Patients usually diagnosed incidently, meaning a routine blood test shows elevated white blood cells or lymphnodes or large spleen is noticed on routine exam. Treatment has actually been around for a long time. More specific treatment has emerged in the last 20 years which is centered around monoclonal antibodies.

The decission to treat has many varriables. Patients with CLL should be followed by a hematology oncologist who will check their blood every three months to look for a doubling time of white blood cells. They should also have a physical exam at that time to assess lymph node and spleen size.

For the most part, it is a slow growing disease. Some patients need treatment regularly, but many may not ever need treat. There can be associated complications but these usually present late in the disease process. Most patients die from other causes (not CLL) but those who do die from it is most often due to infections.

CLL Topics is a great website with a wealth of information, written for the medical-term challenged person.