Conditions We Treat

Chronic myeloid leukaemia.

A blood cancer transformed by targeted therapy — now, for many people, a well-controlled long-term condition.

Overview

What is CML?

Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is a blood cancer caused by a specific acquired genetic change — the Philadelphia chromosome, which creates a gene called BCR-ABL. This drives the bone marrow to make too many white blood cells. It is usually slow-growing, and is often found on a routine blood test.

CML is one of the great success stories of modern cancer medicine. Targeted tablet treatments have transformed it from a life-threatening illness into, for many people, a chronic condition controlled over the long term with a near-normal life expectancy.

Symptoms

How it can present

Many people have no symptoms and CML is picked up on a blood test. When symptoms occur they can include:

Tiredness
Unintentional weight loss
Night sweats
Fullness or discomfort under the left ribs from an enlarged spleen
Occasionally bruising or bleeding

Diagnosis

How it's diagnosed

Blood tests

A full blood examination and blood film typically show a raised white cell count with a characteristic pattern.

BCR-ABL testing

A blood test for the BCR-ABL gene confirms the diagnosis.

Bone marrow biopsy

Confirms the phase of CML and provides information that guides treatment.

Treatment

How it's treated

The mainstay of treatment is a group of targeted tablets called tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which block the effect of the BCR-ABL gene. They are highly effective and usually well tolerated. Treatment is monitored with regular blood tests measuring BCR-ABL levels, and some people who achieve a deep, sustained response can carefully stop treatment under close supervision.

Connected to leading public hospital care

We are linked with major public hospital haematology services in Melbourne’s west and can expedite access to public hospital treatment where appropriate — so you receive the latest expert care and multidisciplinary input, with access to clinical trials of emerging therapies where suitable. Private management is also available if you prefer a shorter wait or a particular setting.

When to refer

When to see a haematologist

Raised white cell count

A persistently high white cell count with a suggestive blood film.

BCR-ABL positive

A positive BCR-ABL blood test.

Suspected CML

We can expedite assessment where CML is suspected.

Common questions

Frequently asked

Is CML curable?

CML is usually controlled long-term with tablet treatment rather than cured, and most people do very well. Some who achieve a deep, lasting response can stop treatment under supervision (treatment-free remission).

Is CML inherited?

No. The genetic change that causes CML is acquired during life — it is not inherited and cannot be passed on to your children.

Do I need a referral?

Yes — a referral is needed for Medicare rebates. Where CML is suspected, we can expedite assessment.

Concerned about a high white cell count?

Ask your GP for a referral, or contact our rooms to arrange assessment in Footscray.

This page provides general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem. Please speak with your GP or haematologist about your own circumstances. Last reviewed August 2026.