Large Granular Lymphocytic Leukemia

Introduction

Large granular lymphocytic (LGL) leukemia is a type of chronic leukemia affecting white blood cells called "lymphocytes." Lymphocytes are part of the body's immune system and help fight certain infections. LGL leukemia is characterized by enlarged lymphocytes, containing noticeable granules, which can be seen when the blood is examined under the microscope. There are two types of LGL leukemia: T-cell (T-LGL) and natural killer cell (NK-LGL). Each type may be chronic (slow-growing) or aggressive (fast-growing).
The frequency of T-cell and NK-cell LGL leukemia ranges from 2 to 5 percent of chronic lymphoproliferative diseases. LGL leukemia affects both men and women, and the median age at diagnosis is 60 years. Less than a quarter of patients are younger than 50 years.

Large Granular Lymphocytic Leukemia

07/10/2012 08:00 PM EDT

Source: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
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Choosing a Blood Cancer Specialist or Treatment Center

07/10/2012 08:00 PM EDT

Source: Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - PDF
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Leukemia--Chronic Lymphocytic

07/10/2012 08:00 PM EDT

Source: American Cancer Society
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