Medical Conditions

Hairy Cell Leukemia is characterized by abnormally shaped white blood cells with hair-like projections. With proper diagnosis, testing and treatment, the prognosis for most HCL patients is excellent.

Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL) Facts

• HCL is a very rare, chronic leukemia.
• It usual occurs in men over 50 but has been identified in women and younger adults.
• Between 500 to 800 people will be diagnosed with HCL in the United States each year.
• It typically progresses more slowly than other types of leukemia.
• Treatment is not always necessary.
• HCL may cause no symptoms.
• The prognosis is excellent for most patients diagnosed with HCL.

Symptoms of HCL
Though it is common for people with HCL to have no signs or symptoms, some will experience fatigue, easy bruising, recurring infections, weakness, weight loss and unusual fullness in the abdomen. Since these symptoms are common to many diseases and conditions, it is important to consult a physician for a proper diagnosis.

Testing for and Diagnosing HCL

• The doctor will perform a physical exam focusing on signs of a swollen spleen, liver, or lymph nodes.
• Blood tests will be taken to look for low levels of all three types of blood cells (red, white and platelets). A “peripheral blood smear” will identify HCL cells.
• A bone marrow biopsy will be performed to identify hairy HCL cells and monitor healthy blood cells.
• A CT scan may be ordered to check for enlargement of the spleen and lymph nodes.

Treating HCL
Hairy Cell Leukemia is highly treatable and usually easily controlled. Treatment will begin when the patient has symptoms, there are indications that the disease is progressing, or there are infectious complications. If blood counts are reasonable and the patient shows little or no symptoms, therapy may not be offered.

Treatment for HCL typically includes chemotherapy, immunotherapy and surgical removal of the spleen if it ruptures, is enlarged or causes pain.

Coping with Hairy Cell Leukeumia
While the prognosis for those with Hairy Cell Leukemia is typically excellent, the possibility of recurrence can be very stressful emotionally. Learning as much as you can and seeking support from other survivors can help. As with all cancers, taking care of yourself through a healthy diet and lifestyle is imperative.

It is critical to have follow up visits with your doctor and stay in communication indefinitely. This also grants you opportunities to inquire about new treatments and emerging technologies.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What kinds of tests will I need?
• What are the pros and cons of treating HCL vs. not treating HCL?
• Will I be cured once I complete the treatment?
• Are there side effects with the treatment options?
• Are there any clinical trials for HCL?
• Were any genetic test performed?
• Can you refer me to a specialist in HCL?

Alternate Names for HCL
Hairy cell leukemia is also called:
Leukemic reticuloendotheliosis