Chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML) is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells. It is also known as chronic myelogenous leukemia or chronic granulocytic leukemia. CML is characterized by the uncontrollable growth of abnormal white blood cells, specifically myeloid cells, which are responsible for fighting infections and forming other blood cells.
In individuals with CML, a genetic abnormality called the Philadelphia chromosome is present. This chromosome forms when pieces of chromosomes 9 and 22 break off and swap places. This results in the creation of a gene called BCR-ABL1, which stimulates the overproduction of white blood cells.
The progression of CML occurs in three phases: chronic phase, accelerated phase, and blast crisis. In the chronic phase, individuals often have no or very mild symptoms and their condition can be managed with medication. However, if left untreated, the disease can progress to the accelerated phase, where symptoms become more severe and the disease becomes resistant to treatment. The blast crisis phase is the most advanced stage, where immature white blood cells multiply excessively, leading to a further deterioration of the condition.
Treatment options for CML include targeted therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which inhibit the activity of the BCR-ABL1 protein. Stem cell transplantation may be considered for individuals who do not respond to medication or progress to the blast crisis phase. With advancements in treatment, the prognosis for CML has significantly improved, and many individuals can live normal, fulfilling lives with proper management.
