A registry study to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of currently used treatment regimens for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and similar lymphomas

Non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) are malignant diseases of the lymphatic system that affect lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that is part of the immune system. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is one of the most common forms. In CLL, the bone marrow produces too many abnormal B-lymphocytes, which can then enter the bloodstream. In addition to CLL, there are several other lymphomas that share similarities in terms of the affected cells or the treatments used: B-prolymphocytic leukemia (B-PLL), T-prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), T-cell leukemia of large granular lymphocytes (T-LGL), natural killer cell leukemia of large granular lymphocytes (NK-LGL), and hairy cell leukemia (HCL). Another subtype of CLL is Richter syndrome (RS). In this condition, CLL transforms into a particularly aggressive form of lymphoma.

The causes of NHL are not yet fully understood, but genetic (acquired) and environmental factors play a role. Treatment options are very diverse and depend, among other things, on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as on the age, physical condition, and symptoms of the affected patients. The most common treatments for NHL are immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplants. Multiple forms of therapy can also be combined. To continually improve treatment outcomes, new drugs are constantly being developed as additional treatment options and are being tested in clinical trials. However, there is often a lack of study data on the long-term course of the diseases and, in particular, on the overall survival of affected patients, even though this data could provide important insights into rare side effects or long-term effects.

The goal of the CLL Registry is to collect long-term data on these diseases through an extended observation period. This is intended to improve future treatment strategies and develop new therapeutic options. No new drugs are tested as part of the CLL Registry. The observational study lasts up to 12 years, during which the effectiveness of the therapies administered and the occurrence of side effects from the various medications are documented. The primary endpoint of the registry is the measurement of overall survival.

Patients aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are eligible to participate in the CLL Registry. In addition, patients with Richter syndrome (RS), B-prolymphocytic leukemia (B-PLL), T-prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL), small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), T-cell leukemia of large granular lymphocytes (T-LGL), natural killer cell leukemia of large granular lymphocytes (NK-LGL), and hairy cell leukemia (HCL). Prior treatment as part of a study is not required.