Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), also known as leukocyte cancer, popularly known as white blood cell or white blood cell, is among the diseases whose cause is not fully revealed. Generali Sigorta, which serves its customers with its 150-year-old history, shared what you need to know about Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML), one of the most important diseases that threaten public and individual health.
What is Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)?
Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a type of chronic leukemia in which myeloid cells in the bone marrow grow abnormally. Myeloid cells are cells that support the body's immune system and regulate blood clotting. CML usually involves a condition in which stem cells fail to differentiate into myeloid cells. Over time, these abnormal cells can inhibit the production of normal blood cells, leaving the body vulnerable to infections and bleeding problems.
How does Chronic Myeloid Leukemia occur?
The exact cause of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) has not yet been determined. However, research shows that CML occurs as a result of changes at the genetic and molecular levels. The most obvious factor in the formation of CML is abnormalities in the genetic material of stem cells. Often, CML patients have a genetic abnormality called the "Philadelphia chromosome." This chromosome is formed as a result of the union of chromosomes 9 and 22. As a result, an abnormal gene, the "BCR-ABL1" gene, occurs. This gene causes the production of abnormal proteins, leading to abnormal growth of myeloid cells.
The BCR-ABL1 gene affects signaling pathways that normally regulate cell growth and division processes. The abnormal BCR-ABL1 gene causes these signaling pathways to become overactivated, leading to uncontrolled proliferation of myeloid cells. This process is one of the fundamental mechanisms of CML.
Although the cause of CML is not clear, certain risk factors have been identified. Exposure to radiation, especially high doses of radiation, may increase the risk of CML. Additionally, it is thought that some genetic predispositions may also play a role in the development of CML. Again, environmental factors are also effective in this disease. The impact of environmental factors on the development of CML is not fully understood, but some studies suggest that environmental factors may also play a role. For example, there is evidence that the risk of CML is increased in individuals exposed to chemicals or some pesticides.
What are the symptoms of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
Symptoms of CML may vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stages, symptoms may not be obvious and are often diagnosed incidentally during routine blood tests. Abnormal cells can replace normal blood cells, leading to anemia, which can cause symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, and paleness. CML can weaken normal immune system function, making the patient more susceptible to infections. CML patients may experience loss of appetite and lose weight as a result. Pain and discomfort may be felt in the bones. CML can also cause enlargement of organs such as the spleen and liver, which can lead to abdominal bloating and discomfort.
How is Chronic Myeloid Leukemia diagnosed?
CML is usually diagnosed with tests such as complete blood count and bone marrow biopsy. These tests help evaluate the structure and composition of blood cells and bone marrow.
What are the treatment options for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
CML treatment may vary depending on the stage of the disease, the patient's age, general health status and genetic factors. Targeted therapies stand out among the basic treatment options. Drugs such as imatinib, dasatinib, nilotinib can be used as targeted therapies that stop the growth of abnormal cells.
Bone marrow transplantation may be considered in patients with advanced CML. This process involves transferring healthy stem cells into the bone marrow of the sick person.
Chemotherapy may be used to destroy or control abnormal cells.
