Relapsed or Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
What is Relapsed or Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)?
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is the most commonly occurring form of leukemia in adults. Relapsed or refractory CLL is a form of CLL that has either recurred (relapsed) after initial treatment or that has not responded to initial treatment (refractory).
Symptoms of Relapsed or Refractory CLL
Although CLL can cause a wide variety of symptoms, there may be very few or no noticeable symptoms in the early stages of the disease. Symptoms can vary from person to person, depending on the stage of the disease. Common symptoms of relapsed or refractory CLL include:
- Fatigue
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Fever and night sweats
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Anemia
Diagnosis of Relapsed or Refractory CLL
Your doctor will start by asking you about your medical history and conducting a physical exam. Your doctor may order blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy to confirm a diagnosis of relapsed or refractory CLL. An X-ray or CT scan may also be ordered to determine if the disease has spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment of Relapsed or Refractory CLL
The treatment options for relapsed or refractory CLL include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Your doctor will determine the best treatment plan based on the stage of the disease, the type of CLL, and your overall health. In some cases, your doctor may recommend a clinical trial in order to explore additional treatment options.
