[Chronic lymphocytic leukemia]

Abstract

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a low-grade B cell lymphoma with circulating cells, often revealed by hyperlymphocytosis. Its diagnosis and therapeutic indications (not systematic) have been defined in 2018. In fact, CLL can be separated in two entities differentiating themselves by their IGHV mutational status, but the search of other prognostic parameters like TP53 disruption is mandatory before treatment. Numerous genetic alterations and mutations exist in CLL. CLL cells are highly dependent from their b-cell receptor stimulation and from their microenvironment, which takes a central place in disease progression. Infections, dysimmune manifestations, cancers and Richter transformation are classic complications, and patients have poor vaccine response even without a treatment. Chemoimmunotherapy is being challenged by the new highly active drugs such as Bruton tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (ibrutinib, acalabrutinib) and by the association of venetoclax and anti-CD20. Future treatment strategies might integrate both new drugs and classical chemoimmunotherapy.

Keywords: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia; Diagnosis; Diagnostic; Leucémie lymphoïde chronique; Pathophysiology; Physiopathologie; Thérapeutique; Treatment.