While most lymphocyctic leukemias involve an over production of B lymphcytes, a small minority of cases involve an overproduction of T lymphocytes. This overproduction of T lymphocytes is called T-cell leukemia. The nomenclature for T-cell leukemia can be confusing because sources, such as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, refer to this disease as a lymphoma. Symptoms of T cell leukemia are similar to lymphocytic leukemia. Just as lymphocytic leukemia can be acute or chronic, so can T-cell leukemia.
Elevated WBCs
Patients with T-cell leukemia have elevated white cell counts. If the disease is chronic, a mild persistent elevation may be the only symptom they have for years. PhysOrg.com reports on a man with chronic T-cell leukemia whose disease remained unremarkable for twenty years before rapidly becoming serious. If the disease is acute, the elevation may be so high that it is called a blast crisis.
Anemia
Patients with T-cell leukemia are often anemic. While this anemia is not present during the early stages of chronic T-cell leukemia, it is often present during the early stage of acute T-cell leukemia. Normal physical activity like stepping out to pick up the mail can leave patients breathless and exhausted.
Bruising
Cancer.net reports that patients with T-cell leukemia bruise easily. Their bodies cannot make sufficient platelets because the marrow is too crowded with T-cells. Since platelets are involved in clotting, patient may bleed more when injured and blood may pool under the skin.
Fevers and Infections
Although patients are literally bursting at the seams with T-cells, these particular cells are incapable of fighting infection. Consequently, patients frequently get sick and feverish.
Abdominal Pain
Cancer.net indicates that that some patients may experience persistent abdominal pain on the left side of their bodies. This happens when the spleen becomes enlarged with cancer cells. In some instances, removing the spleen is very helpful.
