Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Analgesia team
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia | Life Expectancy
CLL stands for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, a type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and red blood cells. CLL is one of the most common types of leukaemia in adults, affecting about 5 in 100,000 people in the U.S.
What it is |
Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is a slow-growing cancer that occurs when the bone marrow produces too many lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. This prevents the white blood cells from functioning properly to fight infection.
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Symptoms |
Many people with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia don’t have any symptoms for years. When symptoms do occur, they can include swollen lymph nodes and spleen, and problems with bleeding, fighting infection, and carrying oxygen.
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Risk factors |
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Cause |
The exact cause of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is unknown, but it’s likely caused by genetic mutations. Genetic mutations can be inherited or caused by environmental exposures. Changes in chromosomes can affect cell growth and the ability to suppress tumors. In most cases of CLL, there’s a change in at least one of the 23 pairs of chromosomes in a cell. The most common deletion is loss of part of chromosome 13
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Diagnosis |
A complete blood count (CBC) with differential is a common first test. This test measures the number and types of blood cells and can indicate the presence of CLL if there are too many lymphocytes.
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Treatment |
Treatment options depend on the individual and their situation. Meanwhile, many effective drugs can help. Some people with CLL may not need treatment right away, a strategy called active monitoring.
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Related Conditions
Life Expectancy |
CLL is the same disease as small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). However, in CLL, the cancer cells are mostly found in the blood and bone marrow, while in SLL, they are mostly found in the lymph nodes.
Life expectancy with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia varies widely, from 2 years to over 20 years. About half of the people with it live for at least 10 years.
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