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What Is Hairy Cell Leukemia?

Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL) is a rare, slow-growing type of blood and bone marrow cancer that affects the production of B lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The disease gets its name from the abnormal appearance of these cancerous cells under a microscope—they have tiny hair-like projections on their surface. These defective cells multiply and crowd out healthy blood cells, which can lead to infections, fatigue, and bleeding issues. Despite being a form of leukemia, HCL often progresses gradually and responds well to treatment.

What Causes Hairy Cell Leukemia?

The exact cause of HCL remains unclear. Like many cancers, it is believed to result from genetic mutations in the DNA of B cells. These mutations lead to uncontrolled cell growth and impaired function. While there’s no proven link to inherited factors or environmental exposures, some research suggests that exposure to certain chemicals or a weakened immune system might play a minor role in the development of HCL. However, more studies are needed to confirm these associations.

Who Is Most Likely to Get Hairy Cell Leukemia?

Hairy Cell Leukemia is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged to older adults, with the average age of diagnosis around 50 to 60 years. It is more frequently seen in men than in women and is considered quite rare, accounting for only about 2% of all leukemias. It is also slightly more common in people of European descent than in those of other ethnic backgrounds.

What Are the Symptoms of Hairy Cell Leukemia?

Because HCL progresses slowly, many people don’t experience noticeable symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they often include persistent fatigue, frequent infections, fever, easy bruising or bleeding, unexplained weight loss, and fullness or discomfort in the upper left side of the abdomen due to spleen enlargement. Blood tests may reveal low counts of red cells, white cells, and platelets, which are commonly seen in people with HCL.

How Is Hairy Cell Leukemia Diagnosed?

HCL is typically discovered through routine blood tests showing low blood cell counts or abnormal cells. A confirmed diagnosis involves a combination of tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), peripheral blood smear, bone marrow biopsy, and flow cytometry to detect hairy cells. Additionally, genetic testing and immunophenotyping may be performed to identify specific markers unique to HCL cells, helping to distinguish it from other similar conditions.