What is the Difference Between CML and CLL?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are both slow-growing forms of blood cancer that primarily affect adults and involve the bone marrow. However, there are key differences between the two:

  1. Affected Cells: CML affects myeloid cells, while CLL affects lymphoid cells.
  2. Symptoms: CML and CLL share many similar symptoms, such as night sweats, fever, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, easy bleeding, easy and unexplained bruising, enlarged lymph nodes, and infections. However, some symptoms may be present in CML that are not typical for CLL.
  3. Treatment: CLL treatment generally begins with chemotherapy and radiation, while CML treatment often focuses on managing symptoms and slowing cancer progression.
  4. Prognosis: CLL is the most common type of leukemia in adults, with most people diagnosed in their 60s and 70s. CML, on the other hand, is the most common myeloproliferative disorder.

Despite their similarities, CML and CLL have distinct differences in the cells they affect, symptoms, and treatment approaches. It is essential for healthcare professionals to accurately diagnose and treat each type of leukemia accordingly.

Comparative Table: CML vs CLL

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are both slow-growing forms of leukemia that primarily affect adults. Although there are similarities between the two, they have distinct differences in causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Here is a table comparing the key differences between CML and CLL:

Feature CML CLL
Origin Myeloid white blood cells in the bone marrow Lymphocytes in the bone marrow, blood, and lymph nodes
Genetic Mutation Abnormal Philadelphia chromosome, which leads to uncontrolled production of cancerous white blood cells Unknown genetic mutations, but not related to the Philadelphia chromosome
Symptoms May include fatigue, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and swollen spleen May include repeated infections, enlarged lymph nodes, and fatigue
Treatment Focuses on managing symptoms and slowing cancer progression, often using oral medications like tyrosine kinase inhibitors Treatment generally begins with chemotherapy and radiation

Despite both being slow-growing cancers, CML and CLL have unique characteristics and require different approaches to treatment. It is essential to understand the differences between these types of leukemia to provide appropriate care and support for patients with each condition.