Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)

Program Overview. At The Lacks Cancer Center at Saint Mary’s Health Care, our cancer treatment programs are increasing hope every day, 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 myelogenous leukemia (CML).

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 that travel to and reside in small pockets of tissue found throughout the body (lymph nodes). These white blood cells are sent out by the lymph nodes to stalk unwanted bacteria and viruses in the blood. They 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.”

CML Overview. Also called chronic granulocytic leukemia, CML is a slowly progressing blood disease, in which the bone marrow makes too many granulocytes (a type of white blood cells). CML occurs when the Philadelphia chromosome causes bone marrow stem cells to produce too many granulocytes—some of which remain immature (blasts). Over time, the granulocytes and blasts (immature white blood cells) crowd out the red blood cells and platelets in the bone marrow, resulting in infections, anemia and easy bleeding, as well as bone pain, and pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs on the left side.

The Philadelphia chromosome. Most people with CML have a gene mutation (change) called the Philadelphia chromosome. Every cell in the body contains DNA (genetic material) that determines how the cell looks and acts. DNA is contained inside chromosomes. In CML, part of the DNA from one chromosome moves to another chromosome. This change is called the Philadelphia chromosome—a genetic factor that causes too many stem cells to develop into white blood cells (granulocytes or blasts). This chromosomal change cannot be passed from parent to child.

Signs and Symptoms. This disease typically occurs in people who are middle-aged and older, and does not present many discernible symptoms. The symptoms that do occur may also be signs of several other medical conditions. Signs and symptoms of CML can include:

• · Pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs on the left side
• · Fatigue
• · Unexplained weight loss
• · Night sweats and/or fever

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).