Understanding Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Leukemia is a type of cancer that originates in blood-producing organs, such as the bone marrow, and causes the uncontrolled proliferation of white blood cells. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common type of leukemia in adults in Western countries. This learning program is designed to introduce you to the main clinical features of CLL. The program begins with a brief overview of the classification of CLL, including a presentation of the hierarchy of lymphomas and the subtypes of CLL. You will then learn about the tools used to establish diagnosis and determine prognosis for CLL. You will also learn about the clinical management of CLL. As you progress through the program, you will also follow the case of Richard Ellis, a 71-year-old man suffering from CLL.

Upon completion of this learning program, you will be able to::

• Define CLL and identify its 2 disease subtypes.
• Describe the general epidemiology trends and risk factors for CLL.
• Explain the tools used to establish diagnosis and determine prognosis for CLL.
• Discuss the clinical management of CLL.