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What Defines The Differences In The Stages Of CLL

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Wichita Falls, TX
July 30, 2022
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A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

In both the Rai and Binet systems (the US uses the Rai system primarily), staging is based on the progression of objective signs of CLL which is quantitative. It is what can actually be observed and measured, such as the presence of enlarged lymph nodes and then both the presence of enlarged lymph nodes and spleen. The latter indicates progression. The CBC and platelet count figure in here, too. Since measurability is scientific and concrete, it's definitive. Of course, the experts who devised these systems somewhere defined where the cutoff to the next stage should be.

The subjective ( actual symptoms) are actually not included. Everyone's symptoms are so different. I could be in stage 0 (no signs of disease, lymph nodes normal, bloodwork close to normal) and feel tired and you could have the same bloodwork and lymphnode configuration and feel great. We both are in Stage 0 although we feel different.

July 30, 2022
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Hi Linda. It depends on which theory the oncologist uses (Rai Theory or Binet Theory) Following is further information for you to read about.

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/chronic-lymphocyt...

July 30, 2022
MyLeukemiaTeam

The stages of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) are defined by several factors, including blood cell counts and the enlargement of lymph nodes, spleen, and other tissues. Here are the key points:

Rai Staging System
- Stage 0: Lymphocytosis without enlargement of liver, spleen, or lymph nodes. Normal RBC and platelet Show Full Answer

The stages of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) are defined by several factors, including blood cell counts and the enlargement of lymph nodes, spleen, and other tissues. Here are the key points:

Rai Staging System:
- Stage 0: Lymphocytosis without enlargement of liver, spleen, or lymph nodes. Normal RBC and platelet counts.
- Stage 1: Lymphocytosis with enlarged lymph nodes.
- Stage 2: Lymphocytosis with enlarged liver or spleen.
- Stage 3: Lymphocytosis with anemia.
- Stage 4: Lymphocytosis with thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).

Binet Staging System:
- Stage A: Less than three areas of lymphoid tissue are enlarged, no anemia or thrombocytopenia.
- Stage B: Three or more areas of lymphoid tissue are enlarged, no anemia or thrombocytopenia.
- Stage C: Anemia and/or thrombocytopenia, regardless of the number of enlarged lymphoid areas.

Risk Groups:
- Low-risk: Stage 0 (Rai)
- Intermediate-risk: Stages 1 and 2 (Rai)
- High-risk: Stages 3 and 4 (Rai)

These stages help doctors determine the appropriate treatment and prognosis for CLL.

July 19, 2024
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Shella,. Once my CLL relapsed I was put on Calquence. Started feeling better but then after a few months my RBCs and HGB really went down and I was tacycardic with exertion and short of breath. I have had to stop taking Calquence for 2 weeks to see if things have improved. I find out tomorrow but still feel bad.

August 24, 2022
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Has anyone out there been prescribed Calquence for CLL? I have been on it for 6 months .If so how did you react to the drug ? Sheila Clayton

July 30, 2022

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