What it means
The most common leukemia in adults in Western countries, mostly in older adults. Abnormal B lymphocytes collect in the blood, marrow, lymph nodes and spleen. Many people have no symptoms for years and are watched without treatment; later it can cause swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, infections and low blood counts.
For the nurse
Teach infection prevention, since the immune system is weak even when the white count is high, and to report fever, night sweats or weight loss.
At a glance
| Also written | chronic lymphocytic leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia |
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Related terms
lymph node
A small, bean-shaped organ of the immune system that filters lymph fluid and holds white blood cells.
bone marrow
The soft, spongy tissue inside bones that makes blood cells.
immunodeficiency
A state in which the immune system is weaker than normal and cannot fight infection well.
acute lymphoblastic leukemia
A fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow in which too many immature lymphocytes are made.