Symptoms of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia can be vague or absent in the early stages, which is why the condition is often discovered during routine blood work. However, as this leukaemia progresses, more noticeable signs and symptoms may develop due to the accumulation of abnormal lymphocytes and the suppression of normal blood cell production.
1. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms is a persistent sense of tiredness or weakness. This results from anaemia caused by a shortage of healthy red blood cells, as well as the general energy drain caused by cancer in the body.
2. Swollen Lymph Nodes
Swelling in the neck, armpits, or groin may occur as abnormal lymphocytes accumulate in the lymph nodes. These swellings are usually painless but can be uncomfortable or lead to a sensation of pressure.
3. Frequent Infections | Symptoms of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Because CLL weakens the immune system, affected individuals may experience more frequent or severe infections, including respiratory or urinary tract infections. The cancerous cells are ineffective at fighting pathogens, and they crowd out healthy white blood cells.
4. Easy Bruising and Bleeding
Low platelet counts can lead to increased bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or frequent nosebleeds. This symptom becomes more common in advanced stages of the disease.
5. Weight Loss and Loss of Appetite
Unintentional weight loss and reduced appetite are red flags, often indicating disease progression. These symptoms may be caused by increased energy demands of the cancer or the body’s inflammatory response.
6. Night Sweats and Fever | Symptoms of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Some individuals experience drenching night sweats or unexplained fevers. These symptoms are often signs of systemic inflammation and are considered “B symptoms” — indicators of more aggressive disease.
7. Enlarged Spleen or Liver
The spleen and liver may become enlarged due to lymphocyte infiltration. This can cause a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, discomfort, or early satiety after eating.
Many of these symptoms are non-specific and may mimic other illnesses, especially in older adults. For that reason, diagnosis often comes after further investigation of unexplained symptoms or abnormalities in routine blood tests.
Monitoring for symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is essential, even after diagnosis, as their appearance or worsening can signal disease progression and the need to initiate or adjust treatment.
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