T-cell large granular lymphocytic (T-LGL) leukemia is a rare, slow-growing blood cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called T cells. It's the most common form of LGL leukemia, making up more than 85% of all LGL cases.
It typically affects people between the ages of 45 and 75, with an average diagnosis age of 60 Show Full Answer
T-cell large granular lymphocytic (T-LGL) leukemia is a rare, slow-growing blood cancer that affects a type of white blood cell called T cells. It's the most common form of LGL leukemia, making up more than 85% of all LGL cases.
It typically affects people between the ages of 45 and 75, with an average diagnosis age of 60, and affects men and women equally. Common Symptoms
Many people already have symptoms by the time they're diagnosed. These can include:
- Low neutrophils (a type of white blood cell that fights infection)
- High lymphocyte counts
- Anemia (low red blood cells)
- Low platelets
- Fever and night sweats
- Unintentional weight loss
- Recurring infections
- Enlarged spleen (in 25–50% of cases) Diagnosis
Doctors use several tests to diagnose T-LGL leukemia, including:
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Peripheral blood smear
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Flow cytometry Treatment Options
If the leukemia is slow-growing and not causing symptoms, doctors may take a "watch and wait" approach. When treatment is needed, options typically include:
- Methotrexate – slows cancer cell growth
- Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) – a chemotherapy drug that can help boost red blood cell levels
- Cyclosporine – blocks cancerous immune cells and can help raise certain white blood cell levels
Your doctor will monitor how well treatments are working over time and may adjust them if needed.
July 14
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