chronic myelomonocytic leukemia

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Overview

Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is cancer of the blood. CMML is considered to be one of the myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), a type of chronic blood cancer in which a person’s bone marrow does not make blood effectively.

Symptoms

Some people with CMML never experience symptoms, and are diagnosed during routine blood tests. Others do experience leukemia symptoms. Symptoms of CMML may include:

  • Enlarged spleen
  • Feeling tired, shortness of breath
  • Frequent infections
  • Bleeding or bruising easily
  • Weight loss without trying

Diagnosis

Tests that examine the blood and bone marrow are used to detect (find) and diagnose chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). The Penn hematopathology service is a national leader in the diagnosis of leukemia and neoplastic and reactive hematologic disorders, with broad expertise in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

Working closely with the clinical team, Penn hematopathologists provide integrative, state-of-the art analysis using histology and a wide array of ancillary techniques, including:

  • Medical history
  • Physical exam
  • Flow cytometry
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Cytogenetics
  • Peripheral blood smear
  • Blood chemistry studies
  • Bone marrow biopsy
  • Specific genetic mutation testing
  • Genetic sequencing
  • The latest molecular studies (ranging from single gene assays to next generation sequencing) to ensure the most accurate and precise diagnosis for every patien

Treatment

Our physicians are part of a multidisciplinary leukemia treatment team whose approach to cancer and blood disorders is to personalize the treatment plan for each patient and to treat them holistically, focusing on the whole person and not just on their disease.

There are different types of treatments for patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). In addition to standard therapies, there are novel therapies available through clinical trials. It is important to discuss any questions you have about clinical trials, or to let your doctor know if you are interested in participating in a clinical trial. Some people with CMML do not require active treatment of their disorder for a long time, and others will.

  • Bone marrow transplantation
  • Chemotherapy
  • Growth factors
  • Radiation therapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Transfusions
  • Surgery
  • Integrative oncology and wellness programs
  • Targeted therapy
  • Clinical trials
  • Watchful waiting