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Does chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) fall under lymphoma or leukemia?

CLL is actually classified as both. It's the same disease as small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) - they're just named differently based on where the cancer cells are found in your body.

Here's how it works:

- CLL (leukemia): When the cancerous B cells Show Full Answer

Does chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) fall under lymphoma or leukemia?

CLL is actually classified as both. It's the same disease as small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) - they're just named differently based on where the cancer cells are found in your body.

Here's how it works:

- CLL (leukemia): When the cancerous B cells are found mainly in your bone marrow or blood
- SLL (lymphoma): When the same cancerous B cells are found in your lymph nodes or spleen

The key difference is location, not the disease itself. Both involve the same type of abnormal white blood cells growing out of control. CLL is considered the most common type of adult leukemia, while SLL represents about 6% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas.

Because they're the same disease, doctors use the same staging systems and similar treatment approaches for both CLL and SLL. So if you have CLL, you might see it discussed in lymphoma contexts too - that's completely normal given their close relationship.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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