Case Based - Overview

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:

• Evaluate the efficacy of purine analogue–based chemoimmunotherapy regimens in patients with CLL
• Discuss the efficacy of anti-CD52 MoAbs in patients with CLL
• Assess treatment options for patients with refractory CLL and cytogenetic abnormalities

Overview and Purpose

Overview and Purpose

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia that physicians encounter in clinical practice and is characterized by great heterogeneity in clinical behavior, biology, and prognosis. Chemoimmunotherapy regimens, particularly those combining an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (MoAb) with purine analogue–based chemotherapy, have revolutionized the management of patients with CLL. However, certain patient subgroups with high-risk cytogenetic features, such as deletion of chromosome 17p13.1, have not benefited greatly from these advances in treatment. Additionally, patients frequently show primary refractoriness or relapse after a brief response to these therapies. While allogeneic stem cell transplantation remains a reasonable treatment strategy for select patients with relapsed/refractory CLL, newer MoAbs targeting CD20 or other novel molecular targets are emerging as promising therapeutic options.

The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on emerging strategies and agents for treating patients with recurrent CLL and high-risk cytogenetic features.

Target Audience

This activity is intended for medical oncologists and hematologists involved in the care of patients with CLL. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.