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Can chronic leukemia turn into acute leukemia?

Dr. Dr. Mariola Ficinski, MD,  - Internal Medicine specialist at 1245 Wilshire Blvd Ste 817Los Angeles, CA 90017
Dr. Mariola Ficinski, MD

1245 Wilshire Blvd Ste 817Los Angeles, CA 90017 Internal Medicine

Expert Medical Information

Chronic leukemia has the potential to progress into acute leukemia. Typically, in cases of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), the disease may reach an advanced stage where patients develop acute myeloid leukemia (AML). CML is generally categorized into three phases: the chronic phase, the accelerated phase, and the blast crisis phase. In the advanced stages of CML, when the bone marrow contains 20% or more blast cells, and the peripheral blood shows 30% or more myeloblasts plus promyelocytes, along with the presence of extramedullary blast cell infiltration, it is considered that the CML has transformed into an acute phase. When CML progresses to acute leukemia, the prognosis for patients is often poor. While chemotherapy can be used as a treatment, the majority of patients may succumb to the disease within a few months.

Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, and discomfort in the affected area. Always consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly laboratory tests or imaging studies depending on the suspected cause.
Treatment options vary based on the specific condition, severity, and individual health factors. They may include medication, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgical intervention.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms, rapid worsening of condition, or if self-care measures aren't providing relief within a reasonable timeframe.