Chronic lymphocytic leukemia history and symptoms

History and Symptoms
Most people are diagnosed without symptoms as the result of a routine blood test that returns a high white blood cell count, but as it advances CLL results in swollen lymph nodes, spleen, and liver, and eventually anemia and infections.

Uncommonly, CLL presents as enlargement of the lymph nodes without a high white blood cell count or no evidence of the disease in the blood. This is referred to as small lymphocytic lymphoma.

The increase in lymphocytes and precursors in the bone marrow impairs the production of other leucocytes causing a decrease in such cell types.

A high beta-2-microglobulin level may be seen and is an independent adverse prognostic factor for CR and OS.