Chronic myelogenous leukemia progresses slowly and usually occurs in people who are middle-aged and older, although it also can occur in children. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside the large bones in the body. Bone marrow cells are produced by immature immortal stem cells. White blood cells fight infection.
Platelets make the blood clot.
Chronic myelogenous leukemia affects the blasts that are developing into white blood cells called granuloctyes. The blasts do not mature and become too numerous. These immature blast cells are then found in the blood and the bone marrow. This information is not intended to be a substitute for individual medical advice in diagnosing or treating a health problem. Please consult with your health care provider about your health care concerns.