The Different Faces of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia -Two Clinical Cases

Abstract

Summary Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is one of the most common types of leukemia affecting adults over 65 years of age [1]. The disease is a part of the so-called indolent lymphomas and has a variable clinical course, defined by many factors. In recent years, knowing better the pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease, significant advances in the treatment have been made [2]. Monoclonal antibodies, immunomodulators, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein inhibitors have been approved for clinical practice. Nevertheless, the development of tumor resistance and recurrence of the disease remains a challenge for hematologists, biologists, and pharmacists. We present two clinical cases of patients of both age groups (young adults and adults), in whom treatment was started with a Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, after inadequate response to immunochemotherapy (CIT).