Can chronic lymphocytic leukemia be found early?

The American Cancer Society recommends screening tests for certain cancers in people without any symptoms, because they are easier to treat if found early. But at this time, no screening tests are routinely recommended to detect chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) early.

CLL is sometimes found on routine blood tests done for other reasons. For instance, a person's white blood cell count may be very high, even though he or she doesn't have any symptoms.

It is important to report any symptoms that could be caused by CLL to the doctor right away. The symptoms of CLL are discussed in the next section called "How is chronic lymphocytic leukemia diagnosed?"