Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Program Overview. At The Lacks Cancer Center at Saint Mary’s Health Care, our cancer treatment programs are increasing hope everyday, thanks to a unique multidisciplinary model of care, which incorporates a staff of progressive physicians and the most innovative technologies available. In addition to this model, we continually review and apply the latest anti-cancer drugs, the newest staging and imaging techniques, such as PET scan technology, and the most effective surgical procedures to ensure the best outcomes in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Lymphatic System Overview. The lymphatic system is the driving force behind the body’s immune system, filtering out unhealthy microorganisms and constantly fighting infection. The bone marrow, spleen, thymus gland and lymph nodes are among key tissues that play an active part in this system. Essentially, the bone marrow—tissue found within bones—produces white blood cells called lymphocytes, which travel to and reside in small pockets of tissue found throughout the body (lymph nodes). Lymphocytes are sent out by the lymph nodes to stalk unwanted bacteria and viruses in the blood. The lymphocytes then surround the unwanted organisms and release fluids that destroy them. They travel back to the lymph nodes, which filter out the newly destroyed “intruders.”

CLL Overview. CLL is a slow-moving blood and bone marrow cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). It’s the second most common type of leukemia in adults, often occurring during or after middle age. The CLL lymphocytes are unable to fight infection very well, and as their numbers increase in the blood and bone marrow, there is less room for healthy blood cells and platelets. This may result in infection, anemia and easy bleeding.

Signs and Symptoms. Because CLL typically does not present many symptoms, it is commonly found during routine blood tests. Symptoms that do occur may also be signs of several other medical conditions. Signs and symptoms of CLL can include:

• Painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck, underarm, stomach or groin
• Unexplained fatigue and/or weight loss
• Pain or fullness below the ribs
• Fever and infection

Risk Factors:

• Being a middle-aged or older, white male
• A family history of CLL or cancer of the lymph system
• Being of Russian or Eastern European Jewish descent

To schedule a consult with our team of oncologists, simply ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-752-LACK(S).