I am also fairly new to CLL. My primary found an elevated WBC. However, I was having repeated sinus infections following sinus surgery, so I felt certain the elevated WBC was due to the infections. He repeated the blood work and also found smudge cells, so he sent me to a hematologist. I, of course, thought the sinus infections caused the issues with my blood work; and I expected the hematologist to share my opinion - WRONG! When she said I had CLL, I was shocked! She also thought that the sinus infections were due to the CLL. I guess it is a matter of "the chicken or the egg". I am in active surveillance (watch and wait). I certainly hope I can maintain that status! Due to my compromised immune system, I receive monthly infusions of gamma globulin. Whether the infections caused the decreased immune system - or whether the CLL caused it - I am grateful to have my immune system getting a "boost". By the way, after sinus surgery, I have not had any more infections. I am glad to be able to share with others who have received the same diagnosis. I have no idea if I will ever need treatment - and I hope I will not - but it is good to know that others tolerate the treatment well.
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This site is very informative. Thanks to all
I am also fairly new to CLL. My primary found an elevated WBC. However, I was having repeated sinus infections following sinus surgery, so I felt certain the elevated WBC was due to the infections. He repeated the blood work and also found smudge cells, so he sent me to a hematologist. I, of course, thought the sinus infections caused the issues with my blood work; and I expected the hematologist to share my opinion - WRONG! When she said I had CLL, I was shocked! She also thought that the sinus infections were due to the CLL. I guess it is a matter of "the chicken or the egg". I am in active surveillance (watch and wait). I certainly hope I can maintain that status! Due to my compromised immune system, I receive monthly infusions of gamma globulin. Whether the infections caused the decreased immune system - or whether the CLL caused it - I am grateful to have my immune system getting a "boost". By the way, after sinus surgery, I have not had any more infections. I am glad to be able to share with others who have received the same diagnosis. I have no idea if I will ever need treatment - and I hope I will not - but it is good to know that others tolerate the treatment well.
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