Staging
Staging is a method that doctors use to determine the progression of cancer in a patient and the best course of treatment. Doctors in the United States use the Rai staging system to classify how far your CLL has progressed. In other countries, doctors use the Binet system. Sometimes Rai stages are combined to describe a Low risk group (Rai stage 0), an Intermediate risk group (Rai stages I and II combined), and High risk group (Rai stages III and IV combined).
Stage 0
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Description
- In stage 0, the level of lymphocytes in your blood is too high, otherwise there are no signs or symptoms of the disease.
Management
- Active surveillance and observation with routine exams. If there are signs that your cancer has progressed, your doctor will start active treatment with chemotherapy.
Stage I
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Description
- In stage I, you have an elevated level of lymphocytes in your blood (lymphocytosis) as well as swollen lymph nodes.
Management
- Active surveillance and observation with routine exams. If there are signs that your cancer has progressed, your doctor will start active treatment with chemotherapy.
Stage II
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Description
- In stage II, you have an elevated level of lymphocytes in your blood (lymphocytosis) as well as inflammation and enlargement of your liver or spleen. Your lymph nodes may or may not be swollen.
Management
- Your doctor will advise you if and when treatment should be initiated.
Stage III
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Description
- In stage III, you have an elevated level of lymphocytes in your blood (lymphocytosis) as well as a low red blood cell count (anemia). Your lymph nodes, liver, or spleen may also be enlarged.
Management
- Treatment is indicated for patients in this stage. The type of treatment depends on several factors such as age, level of fitness, and concurrent illnesses.
Stage IV
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Description
- In stage IV, you have an elevated level of lymphocytes in your blood (lymphocytosis) as well as a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia). You may also have anemia, and your lymph nodes, liver, or spleen may be enlarged.
Management
- Treatment is indicated for patients in this stage. The type of treatment depends on several factors such as age, level of fitness, and concurrent illnesses.
