Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and causes the body to produce too many abnormal white blood cells. It usually develops slowly and is associated with a specific genetic change called the Philadelphia chromosome.
The condition can affect people differently. Treatment depends on the phase of CML, blood cell counts, genetic findings, overall health, and response to treatment.
Quick Facts
Condition | Chronic Myeloid Leukemia |
Type | Blood cancer |
Affects | Bone marrow and blood |
Commonly associated with | Philadelphia chromosome and BCR-ABL1 gene fusion |
Symptoms | Fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, abdominal fullness and easy bruising |
Treatment | Targeted therapy and, in some cases, other cancer treatments |
Specialists | Haematologists, medical oncologists and other specialists |
How Does Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Develop?
CML develops when a genetic change causes the bone marrow to produce abnormal white blood cells continuously. In most people with CML, this change creates the BCR-ABL1 gene, which produces a protein that signals cells to grow and divide excessively.
CML usually progresses through different phases. Many people are diagnosed in the chronic phase, when the disease may cause few or no symptoms. Without effective treatment, it can progress to more advanced phases. Regular blood tests and follow-ups help doctors monitor the disease and response to treatment.
FAQs
Q1. How can I order Chronic Myeloid Leukemia medicines from MrMed?
Search for your prescribed medicine on MrMed and provide the required prescription details when placing an order.
Q2. Can Chronic Myeloid Leukemia medicines interact with other medicines or supplements?
Yes. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia medicines may interact with prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements.
Before starting treatment:
Tell your doctor about all the medicines and supplements you take.
Do not start or stop any medicine without medical advice.
Q3. What are the common side effects of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia medicines?
Side effects depend on the medicine being used. Some may include:
Nausea
Fatigue
Headache
Diarrhoea
Muscle or joint pain
Talk to your doctor if you have severe or persistent side effects.
Q4. What precautions should I take while using Chronic Myeloid Leukemia medicines?
Follow the prescribed dose and treatment schedule. You should also:
Tell your doctor about other medicines and supplements you take.
Inform them about other health conditions.
Attend recommended blood tests and follow-up appointments.
Do not change the dose or stop treatment without medical advice.
Q5. How are Chronic Myeloid Leukemia medicines safely delivered?
MrMed follows the required storage, handling, packing, and transportation practices for medicines. Medicines with specific storage requirements are handled accordingly during delivery.
Q6. What are the symptoms of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
CML may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms occur, they may include:
Tiredness or weakness
Unexplained weight loss
Night sweats
Fever
Easy bruising or bleeding
A feeling of fullness or pain in the upper left abdomen due to an enlarged spleen
These symptoms can also occur with other conditions and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Q7. What causes Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?
CML is usually caused by an acquired genetic change in blood-forming cells that creates the BCR-ABL1 gene. This gene is formed when parts of two chromosomes exchange places, creating the Philadelphia chromosome.
This genetic change usually develops during a person's lifetime and is not generally inherited from parents.
Q8. Can Chronic Myeloid Leukemia be cured?
Targeted treatments can control CML effectively in many people, particularly when treatment is started during the chronic phase. Some people may achieve a deep and lasting response to treatment.
In selected cases, treatment may eventually be stopped under close medical supervision after a sustained response. A stem cell transplant may also be considered in certain situations.






