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CLL results from an acquired (not inherited) injury to the DNA of a single cell in the bone marrow. Unlike the other three major types of leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia is not associated with high-dose radiation or benzene exposures. This should be put into perspective, however. The disease is very uncommon in individuals under 45 years of age. Patients tire more easily and may feel short of breath when physically active. They may lose weight. They may experience frequent infections of the skin, lungs, kidneys or other sites. Low platelet counts and low red cell counts (anemia) may be present, but are usually only slightly decreased in the early stage of the illness. The examination of marrow cells to determine if an abnormality of chromosomes is present is referred to as a cytogenetics analysis. Determining the immunophenotype of the lymphocytes in the blood or marrow is important.
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