Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a chronic leukemia that is associated with a genetic abnormality called the "Philadelphia chromosome". Unlike acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia allows for the development of more mature white blood cells and platelets that function fairly normally in the early stage.

Symptoms in the early phase are often those of a large spleen, anemia, skin bruises or lethargy. It often advances to more serious stages that includes acute myeloid leukemia. Most patients with CML are adults. Children may develop the disease, but only rarely. Previous radiation exposure can predispose to this leukemia but most patients develop the disease without an identified cause.

What is chronic leukemia?

Adult Leukemia Facts