DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
A myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by the Philadelphia chromosome (t(9;22)) creating the BCR-ABL fusion gene, leading to constitutively active tyrosine kinase. Chronic phase is indolent; without treatment progresses to accelerated phase and blast crisis.
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Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Complete blood count
- 2Peripheral blood smear
- 3Bone marrow biopsy
- 4Cytogenetics (Philadelphia chromosome)
- 5FISH for BCR-ABL
- 6Quantitative PCR for BCR-ABL transcript
- 7Mutation testing (if TKI resistance)
Prognosis
With TKI therapy, 10-year survival approaches 90% (similar to general population). Deep molecular response (MR4.5) allows consideration of treatment-free remission in 40-60%. Blast crisis without treatment median survival 3-6 months.
Prevention
- No known prevention
- Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure
- Early detection through routine blood work
Research Status
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) transformed CML from fatal to chronic disease. Imatinib first, now second/third generation TKIs (dasatinib, nilotinib, bosutinib, ponatinib) with deeper responses. Treatment-free remission possible in selected patients.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cancer.gov/
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.