The signs and symptoms of hairy cell leukemia aren't specific and are common to other, less serious illnesses. However, if you're troubled by any of the following symptoms, see your doctor:
- Fever without an obvious cause or a lasting, low-grade fever
- Chills
- Frequent infections
- Discomfort or a "dragging" feeling on the upper left side of your stomach (caused by an enlarged spleen)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Black-and-blue marks (bruises) with no clear cause
- Pale skin
- Tiredness or no energy
- Shortness of breath during normal physical activity
Your doctor may first notice important signs during a physical exam and blood test that may suggest hairy cell leukemia like an enlarged spleen or an unexpected decrease in normal blood cell counts.
Related Links
- Download or order The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's factsheet Hairy Cell Leukemia