Granulocytosis and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
Granulocytosis is a major manifestation of CML, a rare blood cell cancer that starts in the bone marrow. CML is responsible for accumulation of underdeveloped Granulocytes in the bone marrow and bloodstream. Normally, bone marrow synthesizes immature stem cells in a regulated manner. These cells then mature and become RBCs, WBCs, or platelets. Your RBCs transport oxygen and nutrients, your WBCs help protect the body against infection and inflammation, and your platelets enable the blood to clot.
These cells are unable to function properly In people with CML. Immature granulocytes and other WBCs begin to develop and multiply erratically, crowding out all the other types of necessary blood cells. People with CML may have the following symptoms:
- abnormal bleeding
- frequent infections
- fatigue [5]
- loss of appetite
- pale-looking skin
- pain below the ribs on the left side of the body
- excessive sweating during sleep
CML is commonly seen in older adults, but it can affect people of any age. Men are more susceptible to this condition than women. People who have come in contact with radiation, such as radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer, have a higher risk of developing CML.