Management of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is the most common form of adult leukaemia in Western countries. The diagnosis requires mature-appearing lymphocytes in the peripheral blood to >5 × 109/L. The immunophenotype typically includes B cell antigens CD19, CD20 and CD23, low expression of surface immunoglobulin and CD5+, with other T cell antigens absent. Bone marrow biopsy, although not required for diagnosis, must show at least 30% lymphocytes. Cytogenetic abnormalities are frequent in patients with CLL, and may be associated with poor prognosis.