What is the primary characteristic of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia?

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is primarily characterized by interference with the maturation of myeloid stem cells. In CML, there is a genetic mutation, most commonly the Philadelphia chromosome, which leads to the production of the BCR-ABL fusion protein. This protein is responsible for the uncontrolled proliferation of myeloid cells, which prevents their proper maturation and results in an accumulation of immature cells in the blood and bone marrow.

This disorder impacts not only the myeloid lineage but also leads to an increase in white blood cell counts, specifically granulocytes, yet their function may be compromised due to their immaturity. The distinct pathology of CML makes it stand apart from other blood disorders, emphasizing the malfunction at the level of the myeloid stem cells as a critical factor. Understanding this characteristic is vital for diagnosing and treating CML effectively, as targeted therapies are focused on the genetic anomalies driving this disruption.