CML, or chronic myeloid leukemia, is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells. Long-term treatment and management of CML has improved significantly over the past decade, and in some cases, it can be cured completely.
Treatment Options for CML
For CML, the most common treatment is a drug called imatinib or Gleevec. Imatinib works by blocking a protein called Bcr-Abl, which is the main cause of CML. This drug is usually very effective in treating CML and can help to reduce the number of white blood cells and help to keep the disease in remission. In some cases, the disease can be completely eradicated with this treatment.
Other treatments for CML include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplants. Chemotherapy is used to kill cancerous cells, while radiation therapy is used to shrink tumors. Stem cell transplants are used to replace diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor.
Outlook for CML
The outlook for CML depends on a number of factors, such as the patient's age, how advanced the disease is, and how well the patient responds to treatment. In general, the prognosis for CML is very good. In most cases, the disease can be managed with long-term treatment and can even be cured completely with the right treatment.
The most important thing to remember is that CML is a treatable disease. With the right treatment, it can be managed effectively and even cured completely. It is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options and to make sure that you are receiving the best possible care.