Overview
Chronic myelogenous leukemia, also called CML, is an uncommon type of cancer of the bone marrow. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made. CML causes an increased number of white blood cells in the blood.
The term “chronic” in chronic myelogenous leukemia means this cancer tends to progress more slowly than severe forms of leukemia. The term “myelogenous” (my-uh-LOHJ-uh-nus) refers to the type of cells affected by this cancer.
Chronic myelogenous leukemia also can be called chronic myeloid leukemia and chronic granulocytic leukemia. It typically affects older adults and rarely occurs in children, though it can occur at any age.
Advances in treatment have improved the prognosis of people with chronic myelogenous leukemia. Most people can achieve remission and live for many years after diagnosis.
Symptoms
Chronic myelogenous leukemia often doesn’t cause symptoms. It might be detected during a blood test.
When they occur, symptoms may include:
- Bone pain.
- Bleeding easily.
- Feeling full after eating a small amount of food.
- Fatigue.
- Fever.
- Weight loss without trying.
- Loss of appetite.
- Pain or fullness below the ribs on the left side.
- Excessive sweating during sleep.
- Blurry vision caused by bleeding in the back of the eye.
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with your health care provider if you have any persistent symptoms that worry you.
