Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, or CLL, is a cancer that affects white blood cells and bone marrow. This disease progresses at a slower rate than other types of leukemia. Older adults have a greater risk of developing this condition.
Early Treatment
According to the Mayo Clinic, most patients do not receive treatment during the early stages of CLL. Clinical trials will determine if the early treatment of CLL is helpful enough that patients should be put at risk for the potential side effects of treatment.
Chemotherapy
Patients in the intermediate and advanced stages of CLL may receive chemotherapy treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy side effects may include fatigue and an increased risk of infections.
Targeted Drugs
CLL patients may receive targeted drugs such as Rituxan or Campath, which bind to specific proteins in cancer cells and kills these cells.
Stem Cell Transplant
Patients with CLL may receive a transplant of healthy adult blood stem cells that are used to make healthy white blood cells in the patient's own bone marrow.
Alternative Medicine
People who suffer from CLL often experience fatigue that may be relieved with relaxation techniques, meditation and yoga. Exercise may also help patients fight fatigue.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of CLL include fever, night sweats and enlarged lymph nodes. Weight loss may also occur in patients with this disease.
Tags: blood cells, bone marrow, cancer cells, patients receive, side effects