Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)

Understanding chronic myeloid leukaemia

Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is a type of cancer where the bone marrow produces too many white blood cells called myeloid cells. This overproduction is due to a genetic mutation in a chromosome, known as the Philadelphia chromosome, which creates an excess of a protein that encourages the growth of these leukaemia cells. Importantly, this mutation is not inherited but occurs spontaneously after birth.

The exact cause of the Philadelphia chromosome and CML is still unknown. However, certain factors can increase the risk, such as exposure to high levels of radiation or the chemical benzene.

Common symptoms can vary but typically include unintentional weight loss, night sweats and fever, feeling full or uncomfortable due to an enlarged liver or spleen, persistent fatigue, pale skin, easy bruising and muscle pain.

Learn more: Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

Chronic myeloid leukaemia statistics in the UK

CML is relatively rare, representing about 15% of all leukemia cases in adults. It is most commonly diagnosed in individuals over the age of 60 and is slightly more prevalent in men than in women, though it can also occur in childhood.

In the UK, approximately 800 new cases of CML are diagnosed each year. The development of targeted therapies has significantly improved survival rates, with many patients living for years after diagnosis when properly treated.

Treatment options for chronic myeloid leukaemia

CML is typically treated with several medical approaches, depending on the phase of the disease and the patient's overall health. The primary options include:

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs): these are the first-line treatment for most patients with CML. TKIs target the abnormal protein produced by the BCR-ABL gene mutation that causes CML.

Chemotherapy: while less commonly used than TKIs for CML, chemotherapy may be an option; particularly for patients who do not respond to TKIs.

Interferon therapy: Interferon-alpha was used more frequently before the availability of TKIs and might still be suitable for some patients.

Stem cell transplant: this can be a treatment option, particularly for younger patients or those whose disease does not respond to TKIs.

Learn more: Treatments for blood cancer and blood disorder

Stem cell transplants and chronic myeloid leukaemia

Stem cell transplants, also known as bone marrow transplants, are a potential treatment for CML, particularly for patients who do not respond to TKI therapy or who progress to an advanced phase of the disease. This procedure involves replacing the patient's diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor.

There are two main types of stem cell transplants: autologous (using the patient’s own stem cells) and allogeneic (using donor stem cells). While allogeneic transplants can lead to long term remission for patients with CML, they come with significant risks and are generally considered when other treatments have failed or when the disease is in a more aggressive phase.

Learn more: Donor search and match

How we can help

At DKMS patients and their families are at the heart of everything we do. If you are currently seeking a stem cell donor, we can share your story to raise awareness and encourage more people to join the donor register, which can give hope to patients everywhere of finding their compatible stem cell match.

With a global database of 12 million potential stem cell donors and over 115,000 donations facilitated so far, we are dedicated to supporting you. Please reach out to us to learn more or get involved.