The acronym TPLL stands for T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia, a rare form of leukemia that affects white blood cells. It is pronounced /ti sɛl proʊlɪmfəlɒsɪtɪk luːkiːmiə/. The "T" stands for T-cell, a type of white blood cell, and "prolymphocytic" refers to the appearance of the cells under the microscope. Leukemia is spelled with two "e"s, as it is derived from the Greek words for white and blood. Though TPLL is a serious and often fatal disease, treatment options are available.
TPLL stands for "T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia," a rare and aggressive type of leukemia that primarily affects T-cells, a type of white blood cell involved in the immune response. This medical condition is characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of mature T-cells, leading to the accumulation of these abnormal cells in various tissues and organs.
TPLL is considered a distinct subtype of leukemia and is classified as a rare lymphoid malignancy. It typically affects older individuals, with an average age of diagnosis around 60 years old. Common clinical features of TPLL include an enlarged spleen, lymph nodes, and liver, as well as symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and recurrent bacterial infections due to compromised immune function.
The exact cause of TPLL is unknown, and there is currently no known cure for this aggressive leukemia. Treatment options for TPLL often include chemotherapy regimens and targeted therapies aimed at suppressing the growth of cancer cells and managing associated symptoms. Stem cell transplantation may also be considered for eligible patients.
Due to its rarity and similarity to other types of leukemia, accurate diagnosis of TPLL requires immunophenotyping and molecular genetic testing of blood samples. Prognosis for TPLL is generally poor, with a median survival rate of around one to two years. However, individual outcomes may vary, and advances in research and treatment may offer hope for improved outcomes in the future.