Korean J Med.  2006 Sep;71(3):328-332.

A case of chronic neutrophilic leukemia

• Hong SC
• Kim JH
• Lee JM
• Chung JO
• Kim YK
• Kim SY
• Lee GI

Abstract

Chronic neutrophilic leukemia (CNL) is a rare myeloproliferative disorder characterized by clonal proliferation of mature neutrophils, hepatosplenomegaly, elevated leukocyte alkaline phosphatase score (ALP score) and a negative Philadelphia chromosome. To date, approximately 150 cases have been reported in the literature, including some cases presenting with a 'leukemic' state reflected by a neutrophilic reaction. The term 'true' CNL, recently introduced by Reilly, highlights the need for more experience with CNL cases to improve the diagnostic criteria. In Korea, about 10 cases have been reported in the literature and some of those cases did not meet the WHO diagnostic criteria for CNL. We present a typical case of CNL in a 66-year-old man who complained of general weakness and weight loss. On admission, the white blood cell count from the peripheral blood was 175,600/L with 80% segmented neutrophils. The cytogenic study was negative for the Philadelphia chromosome and had a normal karyotype.

Keyword

Chronic neutophilic leukemia; Myeloproliferative disorder

MeSH Terms

Aged
Alkaline Phosphatase
Humans
Karyotype
Korea
Leukemia, Neutrophilic, Chronic*
Leukocyte Count
Leukocytes
Myeloproliferative Disorders
Neutrophils
Philadelphia Chromosome
Weight Loss
Alkaline Phosphatase