COVID-19 in a Patient with Newly Diagnosed Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): A Case Report

Abstract

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is one of the most common hematologic neoplasms leading to immunosuppression. It is characterized by absolute lymphocytosis with clonality of mature B cells. Therefore, they are vulnerable to various infections especially COVID-19. Little is known about the COVID-19 infection when it unmasks CLL. We reported a 90-year-old man who presented with signs and symptoms of anorexia, weakness, and loss of consciousness, and lymphocytosis which in further workup COVID-19 confirmed with real-time PCR. Due to lymphocytosis, peripheral blood smear (PBS) and flow cytometry were performed and CLL was diagnosed. His lymphocyte count increased to 1.5-fold during hospitalization. The patient recovered after 11 days as the symptoms were alleviated. in lymphocytes may indicate other conditions. In these cases, secondary causes of lymphocytosis, such as malignancy or other infections, should be considered