CHRONIC MYELOID LEUKEMIA: CASE REPORT

Abstract

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of myeloid cells in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. The disease is typically characterized by the presence of the chromosomal translocation t(9;22) (q34;q11) resulting in the Philadelphia chromosome, forming the BCR-ABL1 fusion gene. This gene encodes a constitutively active tyrosine kinase protein that promotes cell proliferation, inhibits apoptosis, and disrupts normal regulation of hematopoiesis. CML progresses in three clinical phases: chronic phase, accelerated phase, and blastic crisis. Most patients are diagnosed in the chronic phase, which is stable and can be effectively managed. Common clinical manifestations include fatigue, weight loss, anemia, hepatosplenomegaly, and high leukocytosis. Diagnosis is made by complete blood count, peripheral blood smear, and genetic confirmation of BCR-ABL by PCR or FISH. The mainstay of CML therapy is the use of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) such as imatinib, which significantly increases patient survival. Regular monitoring of hematological, cytogenetic, and molecular responses is essential to assess the effectiveness of therapy and early detection of disease progression. With appropriate management, chronic phase CML patients can achieve long-term remission.