Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
What are the treatments for the disease?
The treatment of CLL is usually started only when the person develops symptoms. If the person has no symptoms, he or she may simply be monitored. Treatment of CLL includes the following:
chemotherapy, which can sometimes make the CLL completely resolve
corticosteroids to control the growth of CLL cells
radiation therapy, which can shrink swollen lymph nodes
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Chemotherapy causes side effects that are generally mild and temporary. Hair loss and mild nausea are common. Corticosteroids can cause puffiness and weight gain over time. Steroids can also interfere with the body's ability to use glucose. This means the person may develop a form of diabetes that will clear up when the person stops taking steroids. Radiation therapy may cause the skin over the area being treated to turn red.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
After treatment, the person will be monitored closely because CLL usually comes back. At that time, treatment will be started again. Different types of treatment can be used if one type is no longer helpful.
How is the disease monitored?
Frequent blood samples will be taken to watch for CLL cells in the bloodstream. A physical exam will also be done regularly to see if the lymph nodes are swelling again. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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