Hairy cell leukemia is a rare form of blood cancer that primarily affects B cells, a group of white blood cells essential for the immune system's response. These leukemia cells undergo aberrant changes and, when viewed under a microscope, have a "hairy" appearance, in contrast to healthy B cells. Surprisingly, these cancerous cells avoid the body's normal cell life cycle, accumulating and resulting in uncomfortable symptoms over time. Hairy cell leukemia normally develops slowly, allowing for a wait-and-see strategy before the start of treatment, which usually involves chemotherapy. Medical researchers and specialists have become confused about the root causes of hairy cell leukemia
How is Hairy Cell Leukemia Caused?
The main reason for hairy cell leukemia cause is still unknown, but it is thought that several variables have a role in its occurrence. The following are some of the causes of hairy cell leukemia:
- Genetic Changes:
- HCL has been linked to mutations in genes, such as the BRAF V600E mutant, which is prevalent in most cases of the disease.
- This mutation, which causes B cells to expand out of control, is believed to be a fundamental cause of hairy cell leukemia.
- DNA Changes in B Cells:
- Hairy cell leukemia develops when genetic abnormalities alter the DNA of B cells, causing them to proliferate uncontrollably and prevent normal cell death, which aids in the progression of the disease.
- Bone Marrow and Organ Infiltration:
- The accumulation of those defective B cells in the bone marrow and other organs can cause several symptoms and side effects that are related to hairy cell leukemia.
- Hairy cell leukemia causes the lymph nodes, liver, and spleen to enlarge.