Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) is rare with 700 people diagnosed per year in the UK. CML is slow in development and affects cells which are moved from one chromosome to another, creating abnormal gene cells. This abnormal gene cell also known as a fusion cell then passes to other cells which become leukaemia cells.

Things to look out for

Symptoms include but are not limited to:

Early symptoms of CML which build up gradually include:

• Fatigue (tiredness).
• Loss of weight and or appetite.
• Swollen spleen causing a sensitive area in the left side of the abdominal area (tummy) this may also create a ‘full’ feeling.
• Fever, high temperature and sweats particularly at night time.

Later stage symptoms of CML include:

• Recurring/multiple infections.
• Small lumps within your skin.
• Unexplained prolonged bleeding or abnormal bruising.
• Fatigue (tiredness), shortness of breath and or pale complexion caused by anaemia resulting from CML.
• Itchiness.
• Swollen areas within armpits, neck or groin.

These symptoms are common in other medical conditions, however due to the nature of CML it is important to speak to your doctor if you are experiencing any or some these symptoms.