Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) is a slowly progressing blood and bone marrow disease that usually occurs during or after middle age, and rarely occurs in children.   In CML, too many blood stem cells become a type of white blood cell called Granulocytes shown here in orange . These Granulocytes are abnormal and do not become healthy white blood cells.

In Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML), the disease is classified by phase: chronic phase, accelerated phase, or blastic phase. It is important to know your phase in order to make a treatment plan with your doctor.

What Tests Will I Need and Why?

Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health and confirm your diagnosis.

TBiomarker testing is done in the blood and bone marrow to identify certain biomarkers such as Philadelphia Chromosome (Ph), which helps determine the best treatment option for you. Ph+ is found in most patients with CML.

You will also require a bone marrow biopsy and in some cases, a sample of spine liquid, to obtain more information about your diagnosis.

If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.  This information is critical to finding the best treatment option for you given your goals and lifestyle needs.

Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.