Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common B-cell leukemia seen in adults in the world. Respiratory tract illnesses are common in patients with CLL and result in significant morbidity and mortality. Patients with leukemic bronchopulmonary involvement (LBPI) often present with vague symptoms like dry cough, progressive dyspnoea, chest pain and hemoptysis and diagnosis becomes challenging in such patients. Pulmonary involvement in patients may occur in various forms. The diagnosis often becomes challenging and requires combination of tests including computed tomography imaging, blood work up, and bronchoscopy or lung biopsy to rule out infectious etiologies. We present a case of leukemic bronchopulmonary involvement diagnosed on cytology leading to the diagnosis of CLL.

Keywords: Chronic lymphoproliferative disorder (CLL), endobronchial biopsy, leukemic bronchopulmonary involvement (LBPI).

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Dr Gauri Nakra