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Medical glossary

CML: chronic myeloid leukaemia

CML is a slowly developing leukaemia that is almost always linked to the Philadelphia chromosome and the BCR::ABL1 gene.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A blood smear in chronic myeloid leukaemia packed with white cells at many stages
Figure 1.Blood smear in CML: many white cells

01Short answer

Most patients are diagnosed in the chronic phase, sometimes by chance from a blood test. Treatment is based on TKIs (tyrosine kinase inhibitors); thanks to them, many people live a normal life for a long time. Response is tracked by BCR::ABL1 PCR. In some people, after a deep and stable response, an attempt at treatment-free remission is possible under close supervision.

02Simple explanation

Chronic means slow.

BCR::ABL1.

TKI treatment.

Monitoring by PCR.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: CML is a slowly progressing cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many granulocytes.

The NCI Dictionary explains cancer terms in plain language; check the exact meaning for your situation with your doctor.

04What happens in the body?

Phases

Chronic, accelerated and blast phase.

A daily routine
Figure 2.A daily routine — CML: chronic myeloid leukaemia

Every day

Taking the TKI regularly is important.

A steady line
Figure 3.A steady line — CML: chronic myeloid leukaemia

Where you will see this word

In test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.

Ask your doctor

The general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

05From an unfamiliar word to a clear answer: four steps

Write it down, look it up, prepare a question, ask.

Write it down — From a result or a conversation.1Write it downFrom a result or a conversation.
Look it up — Learn the plain meaning.2Look it upLearn the plain meaning.
Prepare a question — What does this mean for me?3Prepare a questionWhat does this mean for me?
Ask — Your doctor gives the personal explanation.4AskYour doctor gives the personal explanation.
UnderstandingResults feel less frightening.
ConversationA shared language with your doctor.
SafetyNot drawing conclusions alone.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
PhasesChronic, accelerated and blast phase.
Every dayTaking the TKI regularly is important.
Where you will see this wordIn test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.
Ask your doctorThe general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

07Key terms

Chronic phase
The earliest and most stable stage.
Treatment-free remission
A supervised attempt to stop the medicine.
Term
A word with a precise medical meaning.
Reference range
The range a laboratory considers normal.

08Key points

  • Learn.
  • Ask your doctor.
  • Write it down.
  • Write the word down.
  • Ask what it means.

09Frequently asked questions

Can I stop my medicine?

Only by your doctor's decision and with close monitoring.

Grapefruit and other interactions?

Tell your doctor about every supplement and medicine.

This word is in my results: should I worry?

The word itself does not mean a serious or mild condition; get the explanation from your doctor.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Can I stop my medicine?

  2. Grapefruit and other interactions?

  3. This word is in my results: should I worry?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: chronic myelogenous leukemia
  2. National Cancer Institute. Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  3. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
  4. National Cancer Institute. Leukemia
  5. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: infection
  6. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: acute myeloid leukemia
  7. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: acute lymphoblastic leukemia
  8. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: acute promyelocytic leukemia
  9. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: chronic lymphocytic leukemia
  10. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: fusion gene
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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