Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)

Understanding lymphocytic leukaemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a type of blood cancer that affects a specific type of white blood cells called B lymphocytes. In CLL, these lymphocytes grow uncontrollably and do not function properly, leading to a compromised immune system. CLL is the most common type of leukaemia in adults, primarily affecting individuals over 60 years old, and is more common in men than women.

CLL classified by the amount of affected regions, blood count and lymphknots which are affected/swollen. This helps determine how severe the disease is and how it might be treated. The progression of the disease is typically slow, and many people may not exhibit symptoms for years.

Common symptoms, when they do occur, include fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and frequent infections.

Learn more: Chronic myeloid leukaemia

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia statistics in the UK

In the UK, CLL accounts for approximately one in four all leukaemia cases. It is estimated that around 4,000 people are diagnosed with CLL each year. The incidence rate is higher in older adults, particularly those over 70.

Early detection and advancements in treatment have improved survival rates, with many patients living ten to 20 years post-diagnosis. The prognosis for CLL can vary, but advances in treatment have significantly improved survival rates. About 85% of people diagnosed with CLL will survive for at least five years. Younger patients tend to have better outcomes; nearly 95% of those under 60 survive for at least five years post-diagnosis.

Treatment options for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

Treatment for CLL varies based on the stage and symptoms. In early stages, you might not require immediate treatment and will be monitored through a ‘watch and wait’ approach. When treatment is necessary, options include:

• Chemotherapy: uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: uses your body's immune system to fight cancer, often involving monoclonal antibodies.
• Targeted therapy: drugs that specifically target cancer cells, such as Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors.
• Corticosteroids: help manage symptoms related to CLL and its treatments.

Each treatment comes with potential side effects, and the choice of therapy depends on individual patient factors.

Learn more: Treatments for blood cancer and blood disorder

Stem cell transplants and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

Stem cell transplants will be considered if you have CLL and do not respond to other treatments. This procedure involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor.

While it can offer a potential second chance at life, it also comes with significant risks and is typically reserved for younger, otherwise healthy patients.

Learn more: Donor search and match

How we can help

At DKMS patients and their families are at the heart of everything we do. If you are currently seeking a stem cell donor, we can share your story to raise awareness and encourage more people to join the donor register, which can give hope to patients everywhere of finding their compatible stem cell match.

With a global database of 12 million potential stem cell donors and over 115,000 donations facilitated so far, we are dedicated to supporting you. Please reach out to us to learn more or get involved.