CHRONIC MYELOID LEUKAEMIA

• The main symptoms of Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia are caused by the increased number of ‘blast’ cells in the blood which reduces the number of normal blood cells.

 
The main signs and symptoms are:

Because CML develops (progresses) slowly, it is difficult to detect in its early stages. Sometimes it is discovered only when a blood test is done for another reason.

The symptoms of CML are often vague and non-specific and are caused by the increased number of abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow and the reduced number of normal blood cells:

• a feeling of fullness or a tender lump on the left side of the abdomen. This is because, in CML, the spleen can become enlarged. The spleen is an organ which lies just below the ribs on the left side of the abdomen. It filters the blood and removes worn-out red blood cells. The swelling of the spleen may also cause pressure on the stomach, which can lead to indigestion and poor appetite
  
• some people feel tired and look pale, due to a lack of red blood cells (anaemia)

• due to a lower number of platelets in the blood some people may notice that they bleed or bruise more easily. As well as bruising more easily than normal, a special type of bruising can be seen. This consists of small blood-like spots usually seen on the legs or in the mouth and is called petechiae. Women may find that their periods become very much heavier. However, these symptoms and signs are rare
  
• some people may notice a generalised itching.

If you have any of the above symptoms, it is important to see your doctor, but remember, they are common to many illnesses other than chronic myeloid leukaemia.