Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a cancer of the white blood cells in which excess white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. It results from a translocation of chromosomes 9 and 22, forming the Philadelphia chromosome which contains genes that promote uncontrolled growth. Many people with early CML do not experience symptoms and it is often detected during routine blood tests showing increased white blood cell counts. Diagnosis involves blood tests and bone marrow biopsies to identify the Philadelphia chromosome. Treatment options include chemotherapy, bone marrow transplants, spleen removal, and the drug Gleevec which targets the genetic abnormalities of CML cells.