Hairy Cell

Hairy Cell Leukemia (or HCL) refers to a strange form of blood cancer which can affect B cells, a white blood cell (also called lymphocyte). HCL is primarily causes as a result of abnormal growth of these B cells, which appear hairy under the microscope for they comprise fine projections arising from their surface. HCL can also result into low count of normal blood cells. However, the exact cause is yet to be discovered. HCL can be commonly found in men than women, while the average age of its diagnosis is 55. Common symptoms include easy bruising, bleeding, sweating, fatigue, loss of appetite, weakness, weight loss, swollen lymph glands, and recurrent fevers.