Hairy Cell Leukemia is a chronic (slow progressing) lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) that was first reported at Ohio State University in 1958. It does not develop into acute (rapid progressing) leukemia. The name comes from the abnormally shaped lymphocytic white blood cells with hair-like projections. It can strike both males and females, usually between the ages of 40 to 70.
Diagnosis is done by completing a bone marrow biopsy. HCL develops in the bone marrow as does the blood. A sample is removed from the hipbone to confirm the diagnosis.
HCL will sometimes lead to an enlargement of the spleen. In this rather stagnant area of blood flow, HCL tumors will gather which will trap and destroy normal blood cells.
Symptoms of HCL generally center around the disruption of normal blood cell production. Low red cell production will lead to anemia. Low white cell production will lead to increased infections. Low platelets will lead to lack of blood clotting, indicated early by increased black and blue marks. A swollen spleen from the tumors may be indicated by a feeling of discomfort or fullness in the upper left side of the abdomen. Finally, unexplained weight loss and a loss of a sense of well-being may bring patients to their physician.
