- Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
Overview
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) is a slowly progressing blood and bone marrow disease that usually occurs during or after middle age, and rarely occurs in children. In CML, too many blood stem cells become a type of white blood cell called Granulocytes shown here in orange . These Granulocytes are abnormal and do not become healthy white blood cells.
In Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML), the disease is classified by phase: chronic phase, accelerated phase, or blastic phase. It is important to know your phase in order to make a treatment plan with your doctor.
What Tests Will I Need and Why?
Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health and confirm your diagnosis.
TBiomarker testing is done in the blood and bone marrow to identify certain biomarkers such as Philadelphia Chromosome (Ph), which helps determine the best treatment option for you. Ph+ is found in most patients with CML.
You will also require a bone marrow biopsy and in some cases, a sample of spine liquid, to obtain more information about your diagnosis.
If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed. This information is critical to finding the best treatment option for you given your goals and lifestyle needs.
Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.

National Institute of Health/ treatment-leukemia
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Commonly Searched Questions
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Definition
Source: www.cancer.gov
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Survival Rate
Source: www.cancer.org
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Symptoms
- feeling very tired
- weight loss for no known reason
- drenching night sweats
- fever
- pain or a feeling of fullness below the ribs on the left side
Source: www.cancer.gov
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Treatment
- Avoid Exposure to Radiation: Minimize unnecessary exposure to high levels of radiation, including certain medical treatments and environmental sources.
- Limit Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Reduce exposure to known carcinogens, such as certain industrial chemicals and pesticides.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid Smoking: Do not smoke, as tobacco use is linked to various cancers.
- Manage Existing Health Conditions: Effectively manage any chronic health conditions that could contribute to cancer risk.
Source: www.cancer.gov
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Recurrence Rate
- Chronic Phase: For patients in the chronic phase of CML, the treatment response is typically very positive. With the use of TKIs, the majority of patients achieve a complete cytogenetic response, meaning no detectable CML cells are found in the blood or bone marrow. Long-term remission is common, with relapse rates being relatively low.
- Advanced Phases: If CML progresses to the accelerated phase or blast crisis, the risk of recurrence and progression is higher. Patients in these stages have a more challenging prognosis and may require more intensive treatment.
Source: www.cancer.gov
Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) Prevention
- Avoid Exposure to Radiation: Minimize unnecessary exposure to high levels of radiation, including certain medical treatments and environmental sources.
- Limit Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Reduce exposure to known carcinogens, such as certain industrial chemicals and pesticides.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid Smoking: Do not smoke, as tobacco use is linked to various cancers.
- Manage Existing Health Conditions: Effectively manage any chronic health conditions that could contribute to cancer risk.
Source: www.cancer.gov