EC Clinical and Medical Case Reports

Introduction and Aim: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults in Western countries and predominantly affects the elderly. Diagnosis relies on immunophenotyping, yet the complete blood count (CBC) and peripheral blood smear provide essential initial diagnostic clues through the identification of persistent monomorphic lymphocytosis and characteristic Gumprecht shadows. This study aims to evaluate the contribution of the CBC and peripheral blood smear in the diagnosis of CLL in Mohammed V Military Training Hospital (HMIMV) in Rabat, Morocco.

Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 16 patients diagnosed with CLL at HMIMV, Rabat, Morocco, from February 2020 to August 2025. CBC parameters, blood smear findings, and demographic data were collected and analyzed.

Results: The mean age was 65 years (range: 47-87), with an equal sex ratio. The mean white blood cell (WBC) count was 118.7 G/L and mean lymphocyte count was 116.12 G/L. Anemia was present in 87.5% of patients and thrombocytopenia in 43%. Blood smear examination revealed monomorphic lymphocytosis in all cases, Gumprecht shadows in 93.75%, and prolymphocytes in 31.25%. Notably, 25% of patients were under 55 years of age.

Conclusion: The CBC and peripheral blood smear are fundamental tools for the initial diagnosis of CLL. Our data suggest a higher tumor burden and more advanced disease at presentation, likely attributable to diagnostic delays. These findings highlight the importance of systematic hematological screening in at-risk populations.

Keywords: Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia; Complete Blood Count; Lymphocytosis; Gumprecht Shadows; Peripheral Blood Smear; Morocco

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