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I Was Told I Am High Risk CLL. What Exactly Does That Mean?

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Greenville, MI
April 21, 2024
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A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I was considered 'High Risk' with my CLL because of determining factors.
Type 2 Diabetes
Over 60 in age
History of 'Respitory Infections'
...and some other minor medical issues.

When tested positive for Covid the first time, they put me in the hospital in an 'isolation room' as a precautionary measure. Ironic how I had no problems with Covid, but a cold or the flu puts me down for several weeks.

It's more a precautionary measure. For instance, before I could have my oral surgery done, they wanted to make sure my platelets were normal or close to normal, because of the potential for excessive bleeding.

I remember a special blood test they did, to determine which type of treatment plan would be best suited for me. That could be a genetic thing, a DNA thing, or just about anything. My oncologist gives me a copy of the Printout eith my blood lab results. There must be 25 things on that list that they track. Potassium is slightly high....there's three things that shows my immune system is very low and of concern. It's actually interesting stuff.

Best have your doctor TAKE THE TIME to explain why ... specifically you are high risk.

Best of luck !! And the best medicine is living healthy and eating healthy.

April 21, 2024
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Being classified as high-risk in the context of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) refers to a prognosis and treatment approach based on several factors assessed by your healthcare team. Here’s what it generally means:

1. **Prognostic Factors**: High-risk CLL typically involves certain genetic changes in the leukemia Show Full Answer

Being classified as high-risk in the context of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) refers to a prognosis and treatment approach based on several factors assessed by your healthcare team. Here’s what it generally means:

1. **Prognostic Factors**: High-risk CLL typically involves certain genetic changes in the leukemia cells, high levels of specific proteins like ZAP-70 or CD38, and rapid growth of lymphocytes. High levels of beta-2 microglobulin in the blood and a high number of prolymphocytes might also be present.

2. **CLL International Prognostic Index (CLL-IPI)**: This system is used to give a risk score based on factors like gene mutations, CLL stage, and age. A high-risk score suggests a more severe outlook and influences the treatment strategy.

3. **Treatment Recommendations**: For high-risk CLL, active treatment is generally required. This might include standard therapies or, depending on the specifics of your case, participation in clinical trials for newer treatments if standard options are less likely to be effective.

4. **Survival Rates**: Statistically, the survival rate for high-risk CLL patients is lower compared to those in lower risk categories. For instance, about 63.3% of high-risk individuals live for at least five years after diagnosis.

It's important to discuss your specific situation with your doctor, who can provide detailed information tailored to your particular case and help you understand the best steps forward.

April 21, 2024

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