Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
The information in this section about chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) can help you talk with members of your healthcare team and take an active role in your treatment. Knowing what to expect and being able to make informed decisions about your cancer treatment are important aspects of coping with your disease. You can skim sections to find what you want to read now - and continue reading whenever you're ready for more information.
What You Should Know
- CML is one of four main types of leukemia.
- Hematologists and oncologists are specialists who treat people who have CML or other types of blood cancer.
- Most CML patients are treated with daily oral drug therapy.
What You Should Do
- Talk with your doctor about your diagnostic tests and what the results mean.
- Make sure your doctor continually monitors your response to medication, which is essential to bringing your CML under control.
What Is CML?
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood. CML is usually diagnosed in its chronic phase when treatment is very effective for most patients. CML has three phases.
CML is also called:
- chronic myelogenous leukemia
- chronic granulocytic leukemia
- chronic myelocytic leukemia.
Source: Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. Reviewed by Neil P. Shah, MD, PhD.