Introduction: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a hematologic malignancy characterized by the clonal proliferation and accumulation of mature monoclonal B lymphocytes in the peripheral blood. CLL is relatively common in Europe and North America, with an incidence of approximately 4–6 cases per 100,000 population, whereas it is rare in South Asia, with an incidence of approximately 0.11 cases per 100,000 population. During the course of the disease, neoplastic lymphocytes may infiltrate the bone marrow, lymph nodes, liver, spleen, and, less commonly, other organs and tissues. CLL presenting with marked splenomegaly in the absence of lymphadenopathy is uncommon. Therefore, in patients with unexplained splenomegaly, the differential diagnosis should include CLL and other lymphoproliferative disorders. Case Presentation: We report a case of CLL diagnosed on the basis of clinical findings, laboratory investigations, and additional diagnostic evaluation in a patient who presented to a hematology outpatient clinic with splenomegaly. An 81-year-old man presented with a macular rash involving the thighs, lower legs, chest, and both upper extremities, accompanied by dizziness, unsteadiness, nausea, fatigue, and generalized weakness. Physical examination revealed massive splenomegaly with a smooth surface and blunt edge, palpable approximately 25 cm below the left costal margin. Laboratory investigations demonstrated hyperleukocytosis with lymphocytosis, moderate normocytic normochromic anemia, and severe thrombocytopenia. Contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography revealed massive splenomegaly, with the spleen measuring 27.9×20.0×7.9 cm. The patient was treated with cyclophosphamide at a dose of 250 mg/m (400 mg administered) in combination with glucocorticoid therapy. Following treatment, leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, and monocytosis improved, and the spleen decreased substantially in size, becoming palpable approximately 4 cm below the umbilicus on physical examination. Conclusion Hematologic malignancies should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with unexplained splenomegaly. In this case, a diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia was established based on bone marrow examination and the overall clinical and laboratory findings. Following treatment with cyclophosphamide and glucocorticoids, peripheral blood abnormalities improved and splenic enlargement decreased substantially, suggesting a favorable therapeutic response.

Background: Cancer is not only a physiological disease but also a complex condition that profoundly affects an individual’s psychological well-being and social relationships. Misconceptions about cancer within the public, including its association with death and the tendency to attribute blame to patients as being “personally responsible,” contribute to the development of social stigma among cancer survivors. This stigma negatively impacts patients’ engagement in treatment and their quality of life, highlighting the need to assess societal attitudes based on survivors’ lived experiences. Aim: To examine the everyday lived experiences of cancer survivors, measure perceived social stigma, and identify psychological challenges as well as sources of support. Materials and Methods: A mixed-methods design was employed. In the quantitative component, the Cancer Stigma Scale (CASS) and the Attitudes Toward Cancer Questionnaire (ATCQ) were translated and their content validity was evaluated by an expert panel using the Content Validity Index (CVI), followed by pilot testing to confirm feasibility (FVI). In the qualitative component, focus group discussions were conducted with cancer survivors, and coping ability was assessed using psychological assessment tools. Result: A total of 207 participants (68% female; mean age 33.82±13.7 years) were included in the quantitative study. Participants experienced a moderate level of cancer-related stigma, with negative attitudes most strongly associated with perceptions of disease severity and individual responsibility. Qualitative findings revealed that physician communication and family support played a decisive role in psychological responses at the time of diagnosis disclosure. Excessive sympathy or social distancing increased psychological distress, whereas normal interpersonal interaction and realistic encouragement were identified as the most effective forms of support. Conclusion To improve psychosocial support for cancer survivors, it is essential to enhance healthcare professionals’ communication skills, promote accurate public understanding of cancer, and strengthen the sustainability of survivor support group activities.