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B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in a Cat.
James Andre Mori1, Emma Stacey1, Yelda El Helou2
1Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
Veterinary Clinical Pathology
|January 16, 2026
Summary
A Persian cat diagnosed with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) showed symptom resolution and reduced leukocytosis after treatment with prednisolone and chlorambucil.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Oncology
- Hematology
- Immunology
Background:
- A Persian cat presented with lethargy, hyporexia, weight loss, pale mucous membranes, enlarged lymph nodes, and splenomegaly.
- Complete blood count revealed extreme leukocytosis (lymphocytes) and microcytic anemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- Diagnose the cause of extreme leukocytosis in a feline patient.
- Classify circulating leukocytes.
- Evaluate treatment response for feline leukemia.
Main Methods:
- Blood film review, biochemical and iron analysis, abdominal ultrasound.
- Flow cytometry for leukocyte classification.
- Polymerase chain reaction for antigen receptor rearrangement (PARR) and protein electrophoresis.
Main Results:
- Flow cytometry identified lymphocytes as B-cell lineage (CD18+, CD21+, MHC II+).
- PARR confirmed clonal rearrangement (IGH2, IGH3 loci).
- Treatment with prednisolone and chlorambucil led to clinical improvement and decreased leukocytosis.
Conclusions:
- The cat was diagnosed with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL), a rare feline leukemia.
- Favorable response to alkylating therapy was observed.
- The cat survived for 19 months post-diagnosis.
