Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) synonyms

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is characterized by the overproduction of abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, which accumulate in the bone marrow, lymph nodes, and other organs. CLL is a slow-growing cancer and is often diagnosed in older adults, with the average age of diagnosis being around 70 years.

There are several synonyms for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, which are commonly used in medical literature and discussions. These include:

1. Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL): SLL is considered a variant of CLL, where the cancer primarily affects the lymph nodes rather than the blood. The distinction between CLL and SLL is based on the location of the cancer cells, but they are essentially the same disease.

2. B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia: This term emphasizes that CLL originates from abnormal B lymphocytes, a specific type of white blood cell involved in the immune response.

3. Chronic lymphoid leukemia: This synonym is used to describe the disease in a broader sense, encompassing both CLL and other related types of leukemia that involve abnormal lymphocytes.

4. Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma: This term is sometimes used interchangeably with CLL/SLL, particularly when there is a higher proportion of plasma cells present in the cancer cells.

It is important to note that while these synonyms are commonly used, they all refer to the same disease—chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The choice of terminology may vary depending on the context and the specific characteristics of the cancer cells. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with CLL, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing care.