What are Treatments for B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?

The treatment of B-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (B-PLL) is challenging due to its rarity and aggressive nature. However, several treatment options have been explored, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

1. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often the first line of treatment for B-PLL. It involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. The most commonly used chemotherapy regimen for B-PLL is a combination of fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab (FCR). Other chemotherapy drugs that may be used include bendamustine and chlorambucil. However, chemotherapy often has significant side effects and its effectiveness may decrease over time as the cancer cells become resistant to the drugs.

2. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses the body's immune system to fight cancer. In the case of B-PLL, monoclonal antibodies such as rituximab and alemtuzumab may be used. These drugs work by binding to specific proteins on the surface of the cancer cells, which helps the immune system to recognize and destroy them. However, immunotherapy may also have side effects, including immune-related adverse events and infusion reactions.

3. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a newer type of cancer treatment that uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific cancer cells without harming normal cells. In B-PLL, targeted therapies such as ibrutinib and venetoclax may be used. Ibrutinib works by blocking a specific protein that B-PLL cells need to grow and divide, while venetoclax works by blocking a protein that helps B-PLL cells to survive. These drugs have shown promising results in clinical trials, but they are not yet approved for the treatment of B-PLL.

4. Stem Cell Transplantation

Stem cell transplantation is a procedure that replaces the patient's diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor. This can help to restore the patient's ability to produce healthy blood cells and can potentially cure the disease. However, stem cell transplantation is a complex and risky procedure that is usually only considered for younger patients with a suitable donor and who are in good overall health.

5. Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are not just a last resort for treating B-PLL. They can actually provide access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet approved but show promise over years of testing. The choice of a clinical trial depends on a variety of factors including the patient's age, overall health and genetic changes in the leukemia cells. It's important to discuss all treatment options, including goals and possible side effects, with your healthcare team to help make the best decision. 

To learn more about your B-PLL clinical trial options, visit HealthTree's B-PLL Clinical Trial Finder. Utilize the advanced filter option to locate trials that you are eligible to participate in. You can create a HealthTree account to favorite your top trial options so you can discuss them with your B-PLL specialist.

Want to Learn More About B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?

Keep reading HealthTree for B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia's 101 pages!

• What Is B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?
• How Is B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia Diagnosed?
• How Long Will I Live With B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?
• How Is B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia Staged And Classified?