Description:
Hairy Cell Leukemia (HCL) is a
chronic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder in which the T-cells also
demonstrate severe dysfunction. The name of the disease is derived from the
characteristic appearance demonstrated by the lymphocytes: numerous cytoplasmic
projections that give the appearance of hair growing from the cells. This
article discusses laboratory testing and treatment methods for HCL.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the clinical manifestations of hairy cell leukemia
- Discuss treatment methods for hairy cell leukemia
- Identify genes expressed in hairy cell leukemia
Author(s):
Jessica Sheldon
Debra Wisenor, MT(ASCP)
George H. Roberts, EdD, MT(AMT)
Launched: 2005