Overview
Chronic leukaemia is a blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. It usually develops slowly over time. Many people don't notice symptoms at first, and it may be found during a routine blood test.
There are two main types: chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Treatments often help control chronic leukaemia and manage symptoms for many years. We have separate information on acute leukaemia.
A chronic leukaemia diagnosis can be a shock. Find helpful information in Just diagnosed, or call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to talk it through with our qualified professionals.
What's in this booklet
About chronic leukaemia
Learn the difference between chronic and acute leukaemia and how different blood cell families can lead to chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) or chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)
Diagnosis
Learn about how doctors use blood tests and a physical examination to help diagnose CLL. You will see a specialist blood doctor called a haematologist.
Treatment
Treatment will depend on the stage of the disease, your symptoms and general health. Find out more about options, including active monitoring (watch and wait), targeted therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy or a stem cell transplant.
Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)
Diagnosis
Learn about how blood tests, a physical examination and bone marrow tests are used to diagnose CML. Specialised genetic and molecular tests are also often used. You will see a specialist blood doctor called a haematologist.
Treatment
Learn about targeted therapy (TKIs), the most common treatment for CML. Other options may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy or in some cases a stem cell transplant.
Living with chronic leukaemia
Treatment for chronic leukaemia may continue on and off for years. Symptoms may disappear (remission) but later return (relapse). Learn about follow-up care and further treatment.
Questions for your doctor
It can be a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your appointments. See our list of questions about chronic leukaemia treatment and care.
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