Management strategies for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia harbouring complex karyotype

Br J Haematol. 2025 Jan 6. doi: 10.1111/bjh.19986. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous disease characterised by the uncontrolled proliferation of mature lymphocytes. A subset of CLL patients harbouring complex karyotype (CK) presents with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. This review aims to discuss the current understanding of such patient subset, including its molecular landscape, diagnostic approaches, treatment modalities and emerging therapies. Furthermore, it outlines strategies for personalised management to improve clinical outcomes in this challenging patient population.

Keywords: BTK inhibitors; chronic lymphocytic leukaemia; complex karyotype (CK); high‐CK cytogenetic complexity; novel therapies; venetoclax.

Publication types

  • Review