What is it?
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) is a type of blood and bone marrow cancer. The bone marrow is the soft, spongy material in the centre of most bones where blood cells are made.
CLL affects a type of white blood cell known as B-lymphocytes or B-cells. If you have CLL, your B-cells grow into cancerous cells. These cancerous cells can build up in the bone marrow and spread into the bloodstream or other organs.
In many cases, CLL develops slowly. It may not cause symptoms until later in life. If you have CLL, you may notice symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fatigue and bruising. You may not need treatment unless the cancer progresses or is aggressive. Chemotherapy is a common treatment option.
CLL is the most common type of adult leukaemia.