Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 18, 2025

Investigating Aortic Valve Calcification via Isolation and Culture of T Lymphocytes using Feeder Cells from Irradiated Buffy Coat
Published on: February 4, 2021
Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia of the Aortic Valve: A Case Report
Marie-Louise Posch1, Sean-Patrick A Prince1, Kevin Thompson1
1Internal Medicine, Citrus Memorial Hospital, Inverness, USA.
Insights
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) can infiltrate atypical locations like the heart valve. This case highlights CLL involvement in aortic stenosis, emphasizing the need for broader diagnostic considerations.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Cardiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a common leukemia in Western countries, typically affecting lymphoid organs.
- CLL infiltration of non-lymphoid tissues is rare, making diagnosis in such sites challenging.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old male with CLL presented with cardiac symptoms, leading to the diagnosis of aortic stenosis.
- Histopathological analysis of the patient's aortic valve revealed CLL infiltration.
Findings:
- Immunohistochemical stains of the aortic valve tissue were positive for CD20, BCL2, CD5, and CD23.
- These markers confirmed the presence of CLL within the cardiac valve.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates an unusual presentation of CLL in cardiac tissue.
- Investigating leukemic disease in patients with valvular conditions is crucial for comprehensive patient care and understanding CLL's potential atypical manifestations.
Abstract:
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by the chronic accumulation of mature B-cell lymphocytes in the bone marrow. CLL accounts for approximately one-quarter of new leukemia cases each year and is the most common leukemia in Western countries. Most notably, this leukemia involves the lymph nodes, spleen, and liver, whereas non-lymphoid tissue is seldom associated with CLL infiltration. A large percentage of patients are asymptomatic at presentation; however, for those who are symptomatic, lymphadenopathy is the most common presenting complaint. This is the case of a 75-year-old Caucasian male with CLL on ibrutinib who presented with chest pressure and worsening shortness of breath. The patient underwent cardiac catheterization, which revealed demonstrable aortic stenosis. His aortic valve was subsequently replaced, and tissue was sent for histochemical analysis. Stains were positive for CD20, BCL2, CD5, and CD23, compatible with the CLL of the valve. To be able to investigate those with a known leukemic disease in patients with valvular disease would be beneficial to clinicians as CLL can present in atypical locations.
Related Concept Videos
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction

