How Much Do You Know About Leukemia Lymphatica Cronica (LLC)?

Study Notes

Leucemia linfatica cronica (LLC) is a neoplasia characterized by the accumulation of small mature B-lymphocytes in the bone marrow, blood, and lymphoid organs.
It is the most common leukemia in Western countries, but rare in Asia and the Far East.
LLC has different subtypes, including prolymphocytic leukemia, hairy cell leukemia, and T-cell leukemia.
LLC has a genetic predisposition, and exposure to pesticides and insecticides may increase the risk.
LLC is caused by primary and secondary genetic alterations that affect the disease's natural history.
The primary genetic alterations involve chromosomal deletions and trisomies, while secondary alterations include chromosomal deletions or point mutations that make the disease more aggressive.
Patients with LLC have a population of leukemic cells that are small, cytologically normal, functionally incompetent, and have a prolonged survival due to reduced apoptosis.
LLC is mostly asymptomatic, but some patients may experience bilateral lymph node enlargement and splenomegaly.
LLC is diagnosed by blood tests, bone marrow biopsy, and imaging studies.
Treatment options for LLC include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation.