Hairy cell leukemia

Alternative names:

leukemic reticuloendotheliosis

Treatment:

Early in the course of the disease, treatment may not be necessary, but some people may require an occasional blood transfusion.

Palliative treatments (intended to reduce symptoms) are used with progression of the disease. Symptomatic treatment of infection with antibiotics, and treatment of bleeding episodes, are ongoing treatments.

Interferon and experimental medications have been used with a good response (the disease has gone into remission that lasts for several years).

Removal of the spleen has been a common treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

The expected outcome for this disease is improving with new treatments. Most patients with hairy cell leukemia can expect to live 10 years or longer.

Complications:

Hairy cell leukemia can result in frequent episodes of infection and excessive bleeding.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate hairy cell leukemia may be present.

Call your health care provider if significant bleeding occurs. Also call if signs of infection are present, including persistent fever, cough, general ill feeling, or other symptoms.