Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

The College of American Pathologists offers a comprehensive overview of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a slow-growing disease that is most often seen in middle-aged men, those who have had cancer of the lymphatic system, and descendants of Russian or Eastern European Jews.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society provides a straightforward description of CLL that includes causes and risk factors.

Mayo Clinic lists the signs and symptoms of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and explains that they are often mild and vague at the beginning of the disease.

The American Cancer Society has an in-depth article that explains basic genetics and how chromosomal changes are thought to contribute to the development of CLL.

WebMD describes the tests used to diagnose chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and explains the different stages of CLL.

National Cancer Institute discusses the different treatment options for CLL, such as “watchful waiting,” removing the spleen, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and more.

ClinicalTrials.gov is a clearinghouse operated by the U.S. National Institutes of Health that lists clinical trials currently underway to research CLL. To learn more about clinical trials, speak to your doctor and read the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's guide.

CLL Topics is a nonprofit organization offering patient support and information. Read “A CLL Primer” to find tips for the patient who has been recently diagnosed.

CLL Support Association , a support group based in the U.K., has a page with suggestions for different aspects of life with CLL, such as traveling, eating and interacting with children.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society provides a PDF guide for CLL patients and caregivers, and lists contact information for local Society chapters by state (scroll down to find the list). For family support groups near you, the site asks you to contact your local Society chapter. To find support groups in Canada, visit the Society’s Canadian site.

CLL Diary is a blog written by a man in his 50s who has chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Read about his life and how he copes with CLL. Scroll down the page for a list of acronyms commonly used when discussing the disease.

How’s Dave Doing is a blog “for family and friends” of a man with CLL, written mostly by his wife. The posts talk about his progress with the disease and their life together.

CLL Support Association has a number of resources for people with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Visit this page for stories of how patients were diagnosed and treated, and their thoughts on having CLL.

CLL Forum has several active discussion threads where people can talk about being diagnosed and their treatment progress, as well as find emotional support. One thread is just for caregivers.