Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Expert Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Care, Close to Home
This disease causes the abnormal growth of mature white blood cells. It is often associated with a chromosomal abnormality. In chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), mature myeloid cells grow steadily in the bone marrow, causing symptoms such as fatigue and an enlarged spleen. At Texas Oncology, we are here to provide trusted expertise, advanced treatments, and individualized care every step of the way.
What sets Texas Oncology apart is our collaborative, patient-centered approach. With more than 550 physicians across the state, we offer access to a variety of treatments, from stem cell transplants to single agent therapies. Our patients receive world-class care close to home.
When you seek care with us, you can expect a personalized care plan, a dedicated team alongside you, and the latest advancements in cancer treatment, all designed to support you.
Diagnosing Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Texas Oncology specialists are equipped to diagnose chronic myeloid leukemia and may use the following tests:
Routine physical examination
Physical exams allow physicians to detect potential CML signs and symptoms early like fatigue and weight loss.
Complete blood count (CBC)
CBC measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It can reveal abnormally high white blood cell count and other changes that may be indicative of CML.
Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy
This medical procedure involves extracting and examining a small sample of bone marrow. The collected cells and bone marrow are viewed under a microscope, and doctors perform special tests to determine the cancerous type of blood cell.
Treatments for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
CML treatment looks different for each person. That is why we personalize your treatment plan based on factors like age, medical history, general health, and treatment goals. Treatment for CML may involve the following:
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs)
TKIs are medications that treat certain types of cancer by blocking specific proteins that help cancer cells grow and multiply. In chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a genetic change causes the body to produce an abnormal protein called BCR-ABL1, which causes white blood cells to grow out of control. TKIs work by turning off this protein, helping to stop the spread of leukemia cells. Drugs like imatinib, dasatinib, nilotinib, bosutinib, and ponatinib are commonly used to treat CML.
Stem cell transplant
This treatment involves replacing diseased blood-forming cells with healthy donor cells.
Immunotherapy
This treatment uses vaccines to stimulate the patient’s own immune system to recognize and attack leukemia cells more effectively.
Why Choose Texas Oncology
Our team of specialists are dedicated to your health and well-being. When you come to us for care, you will find:
Specialized expertise
Our hematologists and medical oncologists bring their skills and extensive knowledge of blood diseases and disorders to each case.
Leading-edge treatments
We offer the same treatments available at large academic centers, but in a community setting. For example, tyrosine kinase inhibitors work to stop leukemia cells from growing, while our immunotherapy program stimulates patients’ immune systems to attack cancer cells more effectively. Our active clinical trials program also gives eligible patients access to new treatments before they become widely available.
Customized care planning
Your diagnosis is only part of the picture. We listen to your concerns, honor your choices, and build a care experience that reflects your goals.
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Texas Oncology is a leader in groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials in Texas, paving the way for new breakthroughs in cancer care.