Papilloedema in chronic granulocytic leukaemia

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Chronic granulocytic leukemia (CGL) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm.
• Papilledema is optic disc swelling, often indicative of increased intracranial pressure.

Observation:

• Five out of 75 CGL patients presented with papilledema over 25 years.
• These patients exhibited exceptionally high leukocyte counts.

Findings:

• Papilledema in these cases may represent leukostasis, a complication of high white blood cell counts.
• Fundal abnormalities resolved in all five patients.
• Four patients experienced resolution after busulfan treatment.

Implications:

• High leukocyte counts in CGL can manifest with ocular complications like papilledema.
• Leukostasis should be considered in CGL patients presenting with papilledema.
• Prompt treatment of CGL may lead to resolution of associated fundal abnormalities.