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Are you looking for an overview of Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia (CNL)? Here's a helpful summary!

CNL is an extremely rare type of leukemia — only about 200 cases have ever been recorded. It's a blood cancer where the bone marrow produces too many neutrophils (white blood cells that fight germs).

Who does it affect
- About 2 Show Full Answer

Are you looking for an overview of Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia (CNL)? Here's a helpful summary!

CNL is an extremely rare type of leukemia — only about 200 cases have ever been recorded. It's a blood cancer where the bone marrow produces too many neutrophils (white blood cells that fight germs).

Who does it affect?
- About 2 out of 3 people diagnosed are male
- The average age at diagnosis is 65

Common symptoms (usually appear in later stages):
- Fatigue
- Feeling full quickly after eating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Generally feeling unwell What causes CNL?

Up to 90% of people with CNL have a mutation in a gene called CSF3R, which causes neutrophils to grow too quickly. Other gene mutations commonly found include SETBP1, ASXL1, and SRSF2.

How is it treated?

There's no single standard treatment, but options include:

- Chemotherapy – Hydroxyurea is most commonly used and helps about 3 in 4 people reduce symptoms
- Immunotherapy – Interferon alfa-2b is the only drug linked to long-term remission
- Targeted therapy – Ruxolitinib may be used if chemotherapy isn't effective
- Stem cell transplant – Currently the only potentially curative option

It's important to know that CNL can sometimes transform into a more aggressive form of leukemia, so staying closely monitored by your care team is really important.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Chronic Neutrophilic Leukemia: An Overview