Opinion
Video
Key Considerations for Treating Patients Diagnosed With CLL and SLL
Medical experts provide their final thoughts regarding key treatment considerations for CLL and SLL.
This is a video synopsis/summary of a Peer Exchange involving: Ryan Haumschild, PharmD, MS, MBA, CPEL; Tara Graff, DO, MS; Ryan Jacobs, MD; Deborah Stephens, DO; Jennifer Woyach, MD.
In their concluding remarks, the group emphasizes that although there are exciting new treatment options for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), a one-size-fits-all approach does not apply. Therapies need to be selected on an individual basis considering factors like safety profiles, cost-effectiveness, and optimal sequencing.
Dr Stephens notes that those patients in the “watch and wait” category also need support managing anxiety around when to start treatment. As options rapidly evolve, early intervention may someday be warranted for high-risk patients to access the latest therapies at disease progression. But ensuring access to appropriate supportive care like vaccines and cancer screenings remains crucial regardless of treatment status.
With drastically improved survival rates, patients are now expected to live normal life spans. So developing additional tolerable treatment options and optimal combination strategies and ensuring vigilant, supportive care are pivotal to enable patients to live decades in quality remission. Overall this is an encouraging era, but personalization based on a patient’s unique medical profile remains key to maximize outcomes.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by AJMC® editorial staff.
