Symptoms and Complications
The symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia usually develop gradually. Early in the disease, chronic lymphocytic leukemia generally has little effect on a person's well being. It may only be discovered after an abnormal blood count shows up during the course of a routine medical exam or while a person is being treated for an unrelated condition. Usually, an elevated white blood cell count will be the clue that leads the doctor to consider a diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Key early symptoms include:
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swollen lymph nodes - painless swellings in the neck, armpits, or groin areas
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fatigue, mainly due to anemia
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fever
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infection
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loss of appetite and weight loss
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unusual bleeding
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night sweats
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pressure under the left ribs from enlargement of the spleen
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bone pain
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abnormal bruising (occurs later on)
Additional symptoms that may be associated with chronic lymphocytic leukemia include overall itching, side pain, and lumps in the armpit.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia affects people in different ways. Usually, its progression is slow, and some people survive for many years, even without treatment. In others, it may progress more rapidly and earlier treatment may be required. It is difficult to predict individual circumstances, but there is about a 50% chance of surviving for six years, and a 25% chance of living 10 years after diagnosis.
People who have chronic lymphocytic leukemia seem to be more likely to develop other cancers. This is probably due to changes in their immune system.