Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)

Definition

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, characterized by the overproduction of myeloid cells. This condition arises due to a genetic mutation that leads to the uncontrolled growth of these white blood cells, disrupting normal blood cell production and function, which can result in a range of symptoms and complications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CML is often diagnosed in middle-aged adults, but it can occur at any age.
2. Symptoms may include fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and an enlarged spleen or liver.
3. The disease progresses through three phases: chronic, accelerated, and blast crisis, with each phase indicating a worsening condition.
4. Routine blood tests may reveal high white blood cell counts, leading to further investigation for CML.
5. The introduction of targeted therapies like imatinib has significantly improved prognosis and management for patients with CML.

Review Questions

• What are the primary causes and genetic mutations associated with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
  • The primary cause of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia is the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome, which results from a translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22. This genetic abnormality leads to the formation of the BCR-ABL fusion protein that promotes unchecked cell division. The mutation primarily affects hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow, leading to the overproduction of myeloid cells typical in CML.
• Discuss the phases of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and their implications for treatment outcomes.
  • Chronic Myeloid Leukemia progresses through three distinct phases: the chronic phase, where patients may have mild symptoms; the accelerated phase, characterized by more pronounced symptoms and resistance to treatment; and the blast crisis phase, which resembles acute leukemia with severe symptoms. Treatment strategies differ significantly among these phases; in the chronic phase, targeted therapies like tyrosine kinase inhibitors are effective, while in advanced stages, more aggressive treatments may be necessary to manage rapidly progressing disease.
• Evaluate the impact of targeted therapies on the management and prognosis of patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia.
  • Targeted therapies, particularly tyrosine kinase inhibitors like imatinib, have revolutionized the management of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. These medications specifically inhibit the BCR-ABL fusion protein's activity, significantly reducing leukemic cell proliferation. As a result, many patients experience a sustained response to treatment, improved survival rates, and a better quality of life. The shift towards personalized medicine based on genetic profiling has further enhanced treatment efficacy and outcomes for those diagnosed with CML.

Related terms

Philadelphia Chromosome: A specific genetic abnormality resulting from a translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22, commonly associated with CML, leading to the production of the BCR-ABL fusion protein that drives cancer cell proliferation.

Myeloproliferative Neoplasm: A group of disorders characterized by the excessive production of blood cells in the bone marrow, of which CML is one type, often leading to an increased risk of blood clots and other complications.

Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: A class of medications used to treat CML by inhibiting the activity of the BCR-ABL fusion protein, thereby slowing down or stopping the proliferation of cancer cells.