Hairy cell leukemia (HCL)

With this type of leukaemia, the process of hematopoiesis is disrupted and the immune system is hit. It develops mainly at an older age, more often males are susceptible to the disease. This type of blood cancer can often metastasize.

When treated in Israel, at Tel Aviv Medical Clinic, the 10-year survival rate for hairy cell leukaemia is about 95%. These high rates are achieved thanks to the use of modern protocols of chemotherapy and immune medications. In rare severe cases, the patient may undergo stem cell transplantation. At the same time, Israeli doctors are doing everything to avoid excessive treatment and its side effects: in some cases, instead of treatment, the patient’s condition is monitored. Experts cannot come to a consensus about the causes of the disease. Doctors identify the following factors that affect the onset of pathology: exposure to radiation, prolonged intoxication with chemicals at work, the use of products containing carcinogens, a hereditary factor.

Symptoms 

In the initial stages, the disease does not manifest itself in any way. But then general weakness appears, weight loss is observed. Immunity decreases, infectious diseases become more frequent. At the next stage, it is possible to increase the axillary and inguinal lymph nodes, heaviness in the left hypochondrium, loss of appetite. Typical symptoms include frequent bleeding and bruising on the body, anaemia and weight loss, splenomegaly (enlarged spleen).

Diagnostics and treatment

To identify the disease, it is necessary to take anamnesis, a thorough examination by a doctor. As well as several studies: a blood test, which shows the presence of atypical lymphocytes and a decrease in other blood cells (pancytopenia), bone marrow puncture, computed tomography (helps to identify pathologies of internal organs).

Treatment is usually not complete without chemotherapy, which is used to kill cancer cells. Sometimes a splenectomy (removal of the spleen) is beneficial in treatment. Immunotherapy is also needed to help the body fight the altered cells. Blood transfusion is used to treat the symptoms of anaemia. In some cases, a bone marrow transplant is recommended. Thus, the doctors of our clinic will individually select an individual therapy regimen for each patient.