Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Washington D.C.
SurvivorNet has collaborated with experts from around the Washington D.C. metro area to provide patients with helpful information and support after a chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) diagnosis. We hope these resources make it easier to connect with people local to you who can help.
Understanding Your Diagnosis
Treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is more nuanced than it once was because more effective therapies exist today. According to Dr. Cole Sterling, an oncologist who specializes in hematologic malignancies at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, treatment selection should be a personalized, collaborative process... Read More
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: The Basics
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a type of cancer that starts in bone marrow, the spongy tissue in the center of your bones where new blood cells are made. CLL affects the immature blood cells that give rise to white blood cells called lymphocytes, which help your body fight infections.
While scientists don’t know exactly what causes CLL, there have been some incredible developments in recent years, with more targeted drugs that keep the cancer under control for longer coming on the market. In the Washington D.C. area, there are many blood cancer experts who can help you navigate these new treatment options.
Unlike many other cancers, CLL is a chronic condition, and people often live with it for many years.
When it’s time to begin therapy, your doctor may discuss several options, including:
• Targeted therapy
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy (including CAR T‑cell therapy)
• Bone marrow (stem cell) transplant
Treatment depends on your symptoms and whether the disease is progressing slowly or behaving more aggressively.
More CLL Resources
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Dr. Cole Sterling’s Guide to Making Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) Treatment Decisions -
Understanding Prognostic Markers In Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: What The Tests Actually Mean -
An Oral Medicine for People With Relapsed CLL: Idelalisib -
Dr. Kieron Dunleavy’s Guide On What To Expect From CLL Treatment -
Changing the Way CLL is Treated: What are BTK Inhibitors?
Treating CLL: A Guide For the D.C. Metro Area
Living With CLL
For patients starting treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the first few weeks tend to be the most difficult, causing the most disruption to daily life. Things typically get smoother after that, Dr. Kieron Dunleavy, a medical oncologist and hematologist at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Georgetown... Read More
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