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Questions and Answers
What is the characteristic appearance of cells in hairy cell leukemia (HCL)?
What is the characteristic appearance of cells in hairy cell leukemia (HCL)?
- Round nuclei and densely granulated cytoplasm
- Thick and irregular nuclei with smooth cytoplasm
- Ovaloid nuclei and finely 'fraying' cytoplasm (correct)
- Long and spindle-shaped nuclei with vacuolated cytoplasm
What are the distinguishing features of hairy cell leukemia variant (HCL-V) compared to classic HCL?
What are the distinguishing features of hairy cell leukemia variant (HCL-V) compared to classic HCL?
- HCL-V affects younger individuals, while classic HCL is more common in older individuals
- HCL-V primarily affects the bone marrow, while classic HCL affects both the blood and bone marrow
- HCL-V presents with more aggressive symptoms, while classic HCL is often asymptomatic
- HCL-V is more evenly divided between males and females, while classic HCL primarily affects men (correct)
Which symptom is commonly associated with hairy cell leukemia (HCL)?
Which symptom is commonly associated with hairy cell leukemia (HCL)?
- Persistent cough and shortness of breath
- Excessive sweating, especially at night (correct)
- Visual disturbances and sudden loss of vision
- Severe abdominal pain and bloating
During a physical exam for hairy cell leukemia (HCL), what may the doctor be able to feel?
During a physical exam for hairy cell leukemia (HCL), what may the doctor be able to feel?
What makes up approximately 2% of all leukemias?
What makes up approximately 2% of all leukemias?
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Study Notes
Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL) Characteristics
- Cells exhibit a distinct "hairy" appearance due to fine cytoplasmic projections.
- The characteristic morphology is observed under a microscope, often showing irregularly shaped nuclei.
Hairy Cell Leukemia Variant (HCL-V) Features
- HCL-V lacks some typical features of classic HCL, including less pronounced "hairy" projections.
- Patients with HCL-V generally present with more aggressive disease and may not respond as well to standard therapies used for classic HCL.
Common Symptoms of HCL
- A common symptom associated with hairy cell leukemia is splenomegaly, or enlargement of the spleen.
Physical Exam Findings for HCL
- During a physical examination, a doctor may palpate an enlarged spleen, which is often felt in patients with HCL.
Leukemia Statistics
- Hairy cell leukemia accounts for approximately 2% of all leukemias diagnosed.
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