Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)

Also known as: chronic myeloid leukemia, CML

What is chronic myelogenous leukemia?

Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a rare cancer of the blood in children where over time, too many immature white blood cells (granulocytes) form because of an abnormality in the normal maturation process of the cell. These young cells collect in large numbers in the bone marrow and crowd out other needed cells with a variety of side effects.

What causes chronic myelogenous leukemia in children?

CML arises because a piece of chromosome 22 breaks off and switches with a piece of chromosome 9 (Philadelphia chromosome). This changes the position and function of some genes that then gives rise to the cancer.

What are pediatric chronic myeloid leukemia's symptoms?

Signs/symptoms of CML can include:

  • tiredness
  • weakness
  • night sweats
  • swollen lymph glands
  • easy bruising
  • fever
  • bone and joint pain
  • weight loss
  • stomach pain or a feeling of fullness/pain in the abdomen (because of large numbers of abnormal cells in the kidneys, liver and spleen).

What are pediatric chronic myelogenous leukemia treatment options?

Treatments depend on a number of different factors. The cancer specialists at Nicklaus Children's Cancer Institute will fully discuss with you the various treatment options available and outline the resources which will help you and your family successively achieve the best possible outcome.

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: 3/4/2026 2:53:35 PM

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Complete Blood Count A complete blood count is a common blood test that’s often taken during physicals or other medical checkups. It provides an evaluation of overall health, and also checks for certain disorders such as infection, anemia, leukemia, immune system disorders and other diseases.
Flow Cytometry Flow cytometry is a cutting edge medical test that uses a technique known as immunophenotyping. This technique is used to diagnose leukemias, lymphomas and immune system disorders.
Apheresis Therapy: Leukapheresis Leukapheresis involves removal of a patient’s white blood cells from the circulating blood. It’s often used as a treatment during leukemia if the blood has too many white blood cells.