Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Associated Disorders

Cancer research · Chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common adult leukemia in the Western hemisphere, accounting for 30% of the leukemias in this population.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common adult leukemia in the Western hemisphere, accounting for 20–30% of all leukemias. It is characterized by the clonal expansion of small B‑lymphocytes that infiltrate the bone marrow, peripheral blood, and frequently lymph nodes, liver, and spleen. The disease is usually diagnosed incidentally by an elevated absolute lymphocyte count. Clinical manifestations include lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and occasionally autoimmune cytopenias. Diagnostic criteria proposed by the IWCLL rely on lymphocyte counts, bone marrow involvement, and immunophenotypic clonality. Prognosis is influenced by Rai/Binet staging, lymphocyte doubling time, and molecular abnormalities such as trisomy 12 or del p53. Therapeutic options range from observation in early stages to alkylating agents (chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide) and combination regimens (COP, CHOP). Resistance to chlorambucil commonly develops, and newer targeted therapies are being investigated.

CLL is a major hematologic malignancy that impacts over 100 000 adults worldwide. Its variable clinical course—from indolent to aggressive—necessitates accurate diagnostic criteria and risk stratification to guide treatment decisions and improve survival.

Evidence level: Számítógépes vagy elméleti. Modellből vagy adatbányászatból származó jel.

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