Types of CLL

Are there different types of CLL?

CLL is the most common leukemia in adults. There are different types of CLL based on whether it affects B cells or T cells.

• B cell: B cells are a specific type of lymphocyte that produce antibodies for the immune system. Over 95% of people with CLL have B cell leukemia. 1% of people with B cell leukemia have a type called B cell prolymphocytic leukemia (PLL). A person may have both PLL and CLL or may have PLL or CLL individually. CLL may eventually turn into PLL. PLL tends to progress more rapidly than CLL.
• T cell: T cells are a specific type of lymphocyte helps the body’s immune system fight infection. The T cell type of CLL is called T cell prolymphocytic leukemia. About 1% of people with CLL have the T cell type.