What You Should Know About Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) is a type of blood cancer that originates in the bone marrow and primarily affects the white blood cells. CML is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal white blood cells, leading to an overproduction of these cells in the bloodstream. This condition is often associated with a specific genetic mutation called the Philadelphia chromosome, which plays a crucial role in the development of the disease.
Thanks to significant advancements in cancer research and treatment, the prognosis for patients with CML has improved dramatically. Pi Health Cancer Hospital, under the leadership of Dr. Venugopal Arroju, Clinical Director & HOD of Medical Oncology, is at the forefront of clinical trials and innovative treatments for leukemia, including CML. The hospital’s groundbreaking work is contributing to better outcomes for patients diagnosed with this blood cancer.
In this article, we will provide an in-depth look at Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia, its symptoms, treatment options, and the pioneering clinical trials conducted at Pi Health Cancer Hospital.
What is Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)?
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) is a type of leukemia, a cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Unlike acute leukemias, which develop rapidly, CML is typically a slower-progressing form of leukemia. CML primarily affects adults, although it can also occur in children, and it often develops in three distinct phases:
- Chronic phase – This is the initial phase of CML where patients may not show many symptoms and can live for several years with manageable treatment.
- Accelerated phase – This phase represents a transition where the leukemia starts to progress more rapidly, and patients may experience more severe symptoms.
- Blast crisis – The final phase of CML, resembling acute leukemia, where there is a sudden increase in the number of blast cells (immature white blood cells) in the blood, and the disease becomes difficult to treat.
Symptoms of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
The symptoms of CML can be subtle, especially in the early stages. Common signs of the disease may include:
- Fatigue: One of the most common symptoms, resulting from the body’s reduced ability to fight infections and carry oxygen.
- Fever: Unexplained fever, often low-grade, may occur as the body responds to the cancer.
- Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep can be a symptom of leukemia.
- Unexplained weight loss: Patients may experience unintentional weight loss due to the body’s increased energy expenditure.
- Pain or a full feeling in the abdomen: CML can cause the spleen and liver to become enlarged, leading to discomfort.
- Frequent infections: A weakened immune system may result in more frequent infections.
- Paleness and easy bruising or bleeding: This is due to low red blood cell or platelet counts.
Diagnosing Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)
Diagnosing CML involves a series of tests that help doctors determine the presence of abnormal white blood cells and genetic mutations. Common diagnostic methods include:
- Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) can reveal an elevated white blood cell count, which may indicate CML.
- Bone marrow biopsy: A small sample of bone marrow is taken to check for abnormal cells and confirm the diagnosis.
- Cytogenetic testing: This test detects the Philadelphia chromosome, a specific genetic mutation associated with CML.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR): PCR is used to measure the level of the Philadelphia chromosome and monitor the progression of the disease.
Treatment Options for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
The treatment for CML depends on the phase of the disease and the patient’s overall health. The key goal of treatment is to reduce the number of abnormal white blood cells and manage symptoms.
- Targeted Therapy (Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors – TKIs)
The discovery of targeted therapies has revolutionized the treatment of CML. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), such as Imatinib (Gleevec), Dasatinib (Sprycel), and Nilotinib (Tasigna), target the specific protein created by the Philadelphia chromosome, which causes the cancer. These drugs are highly effective and have significantly improved the prognosis for CML patients. TKIs work by blocking the abnormal signals that lead to the growth of cancerous cells.
- Stem Cell Transplantation (Bone Marrow Transplant)
In cases where TKIs are not effective or the disease is in an advanced phase, stem cell transplantation may be an option. This procedure involves replacing the patient’s diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor, allowing the body to produce normal blood cells.
- Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be used in the accelerated phase or blast crisis phase to rapidly reduce the number of leukemia cells in the blood and bone marrow. It is often used in combination with other therapies.
- Interferon Therapy
Interferon-alpha is a type of protein that can stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells. It is used less frequently now due to the effectiveness of TKIs but may be considered in certain cases.
Conclusion
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) is a challenging blood cancer, but with advancements in targeted therapies and ongoing clinical trials, the outlook for patients has improved significantly. Pi Health Cancer Hospital, led by Dr. Venugopal Arroju, is at the forefront of research and innovation in CML treatment, offering patients access to the latest breakthroughs in cancer care. Whether through precision medicine, immunotherapy, or next-generation TKIs, the hospital is committed to improving survival rates and enhancing the quality of life for those living with CML.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with CML, contact Pi Health Cancer Hospital to explore the latest treatment options and clinical trials available. Together, we can work toward a brighter future in the fight against blood cancer.
FAQS
CML is caused by a genetic mutation known as the Philadelphia chromosome, which results from the translocation of genetic material between chromosomes 9 and 22.
While CML is not typically considered curable, it can often be managed effectively with targeted therapies like TKIs, allowing patients to live normal lives. Stem cell transplants may offer a potential cure for some patients.
Early symptoms of CML may include fatigue, unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, and pain or fullness in the abdomen due to an enlarged spleen or liver.
The primary treatment for CML includes targeted therapy with TKIs, chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, and in some cases, interferon therapy.
Common side effects of TKIs may include nausea, fatigue, muscle cramps, and swelling. However, these side effects are typically manageable and less severe compared to chemotherapy.
Patients with CML should undergo regular blood tests and bone marrow biopsies to monitor their response to treatment and detect any potential relapse.
Mohs surgery is a precise surgical technique used to remove SCC from areas where preserving healthy tissue is important. It involves removing thin layers of tissue and examining them under a microscope to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated.
Dr. A. Venugopal
Clinical Director & HOD Medical Oncology Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist & Hemato-Oncologist
About Author
Dr. A. Venugopal
MD (General Medicine), DM (Medical Oncology), MRCP – SCE Medical Oncology (UK), ECMO (Switzerland).
Dr A. Venugopal is One of the best medical oncologist and Hemato Oncologist in hyderabad, currently serving as the Head of the Department and Senior Medical Oncologist, Hemato Oncologist at Pi Health Cancer Hospital in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. He brings over 15 years of extensive experience in the field of Oncology.