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What is Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)?

Chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML) is an uncommon bone marrow malignancy. Bone marrow is the spongy substance found inside bones that produces blood cells. CML increases the quantity of white blood cells in the bloodstream.

The term chronic in chronic myelogenous leukaemia refers to cancer that progresses more slowly than severe kinds of leukaemia. The term myelogenous relates to the cells affected by this malignancy.

Chronic myelogenous leukaemia is also known as chronic myeloid or chronic granulocytic leukaemia. It mainly affects older adults and is infrequently seen in children, but can happen at any age.

Advances in treatment have improved the prognosis for persons with chronic myelogenous leukaemia.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) must be treated as soon as possible to improve patient outcomes and manage the disease efficiently.

Early treatment can keep the disease from developing to the more aggressive blastic phase, which is more challenging to treat. Early therapy increases long-term survival rates and lowers the chance of complications, relapses, or progression to acute leukaemia, which has inferior outcomes.

Furthermore, timely therapy aids in the control of symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and pain, allowing patients to maintain a higher quality of life. Therefore, early and consistent therapy of CML is essential for better disease control, increased survival, and improved overall health.

What are the Common Symptoms of Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)?

Chronic myelogenous leukaemia is generally asymptomatic. A blood test may identify it. Symptoms may include:

  • Bone discomfort
  • Bleeding easily
  • Feeling satisfied after consuming a tiny quantity of food
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • You can lose weight without trying
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pain or fullness beneath the ribcage on the left side
  • Excessive sweating when asleep
  • Blurry vision is produced by bleeding in the rear of the eye

Stages of Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)

  • Chronic CML: The term chronic usually refers to a long-term condition. In CML, the phrase refers to the proportion of immature white blood cells (blasts) in your bone marrow and blood. In chronic CML, blasts account for approximately 10% of your blood and bone marrow cells.
  • Accelerated CML: Blasts account for 10% to 19% of cells in your blood or bone marrow during the Accelerated CML phase.
  • Blast (Blast Crisis) CML: Blast can be life-threatening. In blast CML, testing shows that blasts account for 20% or more of your bone marrow or blood cells.
  • Resistant CML: This refers to CML that recurs or does not respond to treatment.

Causes, Risk Factors and Complications of Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML)

Causes

Chronic myelogenous leukaemia occurs when something changes the bone marrow cells.

  • A new chromosome develops.
    • In persons with chronic myelogenous leukaemia, the chromosomes in blood cells swap parts. A portion of chromosome 9 swaps positions with a section of chromosome 22. This results in a tiny chromosome 22 and an extremely long chromosome 9.
    • The extra-short chromosome 22 is known as the Philadelphia chromosome. 90% of chronic myelogenous leukaemia patients have the Philadelphia chromosome in their blood cells.
  • The Philadelphia chromosome generates a new gene.
    • The Philadelphia chromosome combines chromosomes 9 and 22 to form a new gene known as BCR-ABL. The BCR-ABL gene tells the blood cells to produce too much of a tyrosine kinase protein. Tyrosine kinase promotes cancer by allowing some blood cells to proliferate uncontrollably.
  • The new gene allows for too many unhealthy blood cells
    • Tyrosine kinase in chronic myelogenous leukaemia promotes the growth of excessive white blood cells. The Philadelphia chromosome is present in most, if not all, of these cells. The defective white blood cells do not develop and perish as they should.
    • The defective white blood cells accumulate in large numbers. They deplete healthy blood cells and harm the bone marrow.

Risk Factors

The following factors enhance the risk of chronic myelogenous leukaemia:

  • Older age: CML is more prevalent in older persons than children and teenagers.
  • Being Male: Men have a slightly higher risk of acquiring CML than women.
  • Radiation exposure: Radiation therapy for specific forms of cancer has been associated with CML.

Complications

Individuals with CML may develop:

  • Anaemia: This disorder develops when you do not have enough red blood cells.
  • Splenomegaly (enlarged spleen)

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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) in India

  • In India, the most recent research and technology in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) treatment focuses primarily on the use of low-cost generic versions of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which have significantly improved patient outcomes by making this targeted therapy available to a larger population, as well as ongoing research to overcome TKI resistance and explore potential treatment-free remission options for appropriate patients.

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) Prevention Tips

Some prevention tips for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML):

  • Avoid radiation exposure
  • Minimise chemical exposure
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle
  • Quit smoking as Smoking increases the risk of various cancers, including CML.
  • Regular health check-ups

These tips support overall health but cannot specifically prevent CML.

Treatment options for Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)

Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules in cancer cells, such as the tyrosine kinase protein in chronic myelogenous leukemia.


Cost Start From USD 8000 - USD 12000Explore Options

Bone marrow transplant: A bone marrow transplant heals chronic myelogenous leukemia, although it is only recommended for patients who have not received previous treatments due to the dangers and problems involved. High-dose chemotherapy destroys blood-forming cells, while donor blood stem cells replace damaged ones.


Cost Start From USD 25000 - USD 35000Explore Options

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy employs potent medications to attack cancer cells. Medicines for chemotherapy are occasionally coupled with targeted therapy to treat aggressive chronic myelogenous leukemia.


Cost Start From USD 600 - USD 700Explore Options

The following tests and procedures diagnose Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML):

  • Complete blood count (CBC): A complete blood count (CBC) may be performed to determine whether there are too many white or too few red blood cells.
  • Bone marrow aspiration or biopsy: Providers collect small amounts of fluid or tissue for genetic testing. A medical pathologist will run tests to determine the genetic makeup of aberrant cells.
  • Computed tomography (CT) scan: Providers utilise a computed tomography (CT) scan to assess whether CML impacts other sections of your body.
  • Ultrasound: Your provider may use this test to check whether your spleen is larger than usual. CML symptoms include an enlarged spleen.
  • Physical Therapy: Physical therapy enhances strength, mobility, and total physical function during and after treatment. Physical therapy can help CML patients recover and maintain their activity levels.
  • Cognitive Rehabilitation: Some CML patients may have "chemo brain," including memory or attention difficulties. Cognitive therapy can help to improve mental function and concentration.
  • Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy assists patients in regaining daily and work-related skills. Occupational therapists can help with changes to the home or work environment to accommodate fatigue or physical restrictions.
  • Dietary Management: Eating a well-balanced diet can help you retain strength, control prescription side effects, and improve overall health.

MediGence can assist and guide you in selecting the best physician and medical facility for your care.

Depending on the circumstances, your doctor may prescribe medication to assist you in managing your symptoms and support your treatment plan.

Treatment regimens are adapted to the patient's specific cancer stage and location.

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Hospitals for Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in India

Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre

Chennai, India

The mega-structure of RIMC serves as a hospital as well as an educational institute. Hence, it offers a huge array of medical services and facilities to cater to the needs of its patients.

Fertility Services - RIMC specializes in both male and female fertility and in procedures like IntraCytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), Uterine Transplants, Preimplantation genetics and Laser Assisted Hatching (LAH).

Anaesthesia and ICU - The ICU rooms in RIMC are equipped to serve the individual needs of every patient. They boast the largest liver transplant ICU in India and a specific ICU dedicated to pediatrics multi-organ transplants.

Radiology and Imaging Sciences - RIMC has the infrastructure to support high-quality scans including 128 Slice CT, Cardiac MRI, and 3 Tesla MRIs.

Blood Bank and Transfusion Medicine - RIMC has an active blood bank system with facilities dedicated to Blood Component Separation and Therapy. They use high-end technology like the Automated 1H500 Analyser and have a separate Therapeutic Apheresis Unit.

Advanced Endoscopy - Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre has one of the most advanced hospital facilities with an individual healthcare unit specifically dedicated to Endoscopy. Advanced procedures like Spyglass Cholangioscopy, Laser therapy, Endoscopic Ultrasound, Capsule Endoscopy, and special ERCP and EUS Suite.

Some of the other healthcare facilities, departments, and services offered by Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Healthcare are listed below:

  • Orthopaedics
  • Obstetrics and Gynaecology
  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Hepatology
  • Cardiology
  • Internal Medicine and Diabetology
  • Advanced Paediatrics
  • Ear Nose and Throat 
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Interventional Radiology and Imaging Services
  • Neonatology
  • Neurology
  • Liver Disease and Transplantation
  • Gastroenterology
  • Medical Oncology
  • Nephrology
  • Neonatology
  • Pathology
  • Ophthalmology
  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • Radiation Oncology
  • Pulmonary Medicine
  • Urology
  • Surgical Oncology
  • Transfusion Medicine

Apart from these facilities, Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre also have a preventive health check lounge, 72 consultation suites, and 360 degrees including lab facilities specifically for outpatients. 

Visit Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre in Chromepet, Chennai today and find the best care for you and your loved ones.

Yatharth hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Yatharth hospital

Delhi / NCR, India

  • The hospital features over 400 beds with advanced infrastructure for multi-speciality treatment.
  • Much of the facility is dedicated to ICU units with the latest life-saving equipment.
  • Advanced medical imaging systems include a 64-slice cardiac CT scanner, a dual-head gamma camera, a 16-slice PET-CT scanner, and a fan-beam bone density scanner (BMD).
  • The radiology setup operates through a fully integrated RIS-HIS system for smooth diagnostics and reporting.
  • The hospital offers high-resolution colour Doppler ultrasound systems for precise vascular and soft tissue imaging.
  • The cardiology wing is equipped with a Philips FD20/10 cath lab, enhanced by modern stent-boost imaging technology.
  • Cutting-edge tools, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and fractional flow reserve (FFR), support advanced heart diagnostics.
  • Facilities include rotablator technology for hardened arteries and an Ensite Velocity cardiac mapping system for complex arrhythmias.
  • A fully functional hybrid endovascular suite supports combined surgical and interventional heart procedures.
  • The ICU and NICU areas feature high-frequency ventilators, central pressure monitoring, and advanced bedside diagnostic tools.
  • Life-support systems include intra-aortic balloon pumps, invasive blood pressure monitoring, and bedside percutaneous tracheostomy.
  • Patient safety and comfort are enhanced with temperature-controlled blankets, bedside echocardiography, and mobile X-ray systems.
  • Operation theatres are fitted with navigation-assisted systems for knee replacement and MEP monitoring for spine surgeries.
  • Fiberoptic bronchoscopes, PCA pumps for pain control, and SSEP monitoring during neurosurgeries enhance surgical precision.
Indraprastha Apollo Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Indraprastha Apollo Hospital

Delhi, India

Indraprastha Apollo Hospital is known for delivering treatment to over 200,000 patients every year; 10,000 of which are generally medical tourists. The efficient team of doctors has the record of 99.6 percent success rate. Indraprastha Apollo Hospital deals in treatment of over 50 specialities.  

Let’s see some of the features of the infrastructure:

  • Spread over 15 acres, the hospital has 710 beds.
  • 6 beds dedicated to bone marrow transplant units with very strict infection control practices.
  • 64-Slice Scan coupled with data acquisition which provides highest temporal resolution
  • One of the hospitals to be using Da Vinci Robotics Surgery System
  • In South Asia, the Spect-CT and Pet-CT got their first installation at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in India
  • Technologies such as PET- MR, BrainLab Navigation System, PET-CT, Portable CT Scanner, Tilting MRI, NovalisTx, Cobalt based HDR Brachytherapy, Hyperbaric Chamber, DSA Lab, Fibroscan, 3 Tesla MRI, Endosonography, 128 Slice CT scanner are all installed at the hospital.
  • The Cancer Institute at Indraprastha Apollo is equipped with a highly advanced Radiation Oncology Center with ClinaciX, NovalisTx, and HDR-Brachytherapy.
  • It is equipped with the largest Sleep Lab in Asia, & has one of the largest Dialysis Units in India.
  • A large number of ICU beds than any other Private Hospitals in India.
  • WIFI is accessible across the whole campus.

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Why Choose India for Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) Treatment?

Here are some of the reasons for choosing India:

  • Due to advancements in medical facilities, such as minimally invasive surgical techniques.
  • World-class experts include highly experienced doctors, JCI, and NABH-accredited healthcare institutions.
  • Compared to other countries, treatment in Indian hospitals is cost-effective.
  • Indian hospitals provide International patient services, including a multilingual support system.
  • Improved treatment methods and biological therapies

Frequently Asked Questions

The success rate is excellent, particularly if the condition is detected early. TKIs work well for 80-90% of patients, resulting in long-term remission and excellent disease management.

Although recurrence is uncommon, it can occur, particularly if the disease is not properly controlled or the patient grows resistant to treatment. Relapsed CML can be managed by regular monitoring and treatment changes.

Side effects differ depending on the specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), but may include:

  • Stomach ache.
  • Fatigue.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Muscle cramping.
  • Edema.
  • Pleural effusion (fluid collection around the lungs).
  • Pancreatitis.
  • Damage to your liver.
  • Low white blood cell and platelet levels.

Yes, India has several specialist cancer centers that provide cutting-edge CML therapy, including access to clinical trials and novel treatments.

Yes, it can. CML patients may be more likely to develop other types of cancer (second malignancies). A recent study found that approximately 30% of persons with chronic myeloid leukemia got second malignancies, including:

  • Small intestine cancer
  • Thyroid cancer
  • Stomach cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Prostate cancer

CML can occur anywhere in India, although there is no compelling evidence that it is more prevalent in any particular region. However, healthcare accessibility and awareness may differ by geography, with better diagnosis and treatment available in major cities.

Stem cell transplants are explored when the illness does not respond to TKIs or there is a relapse. The surgery is accessible at many major hospitals across India, although it is typically chosen as a last resort due to its complexity and cost