Overview

As of the mid-2000s, modern targeted therapies have become the new standard for treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Targeted therapy refers to medicines that can specifically destroy cancer cells, leaving most healthy cells alone. This is in contrast to chemotherapy, which attacks any cancerous or healthy cell that is growing and dividing really fast.

To read about rare exceptions in which chemotherapy may be used to treat CLL, click here. 

Targeted therapies work well for the majority of people with CLL, even high-risk CLL types like those with del(17p)/TP53 mutation.

Almost all individuals living with CLL will try several of these treatments throughout their lives. This is because CLL cells can become resistant to one type of therapy after several years, requiring a change to another. 

As of 2024, CLL is a cancer that often requires ongoing treatment rather than a one-time cure. We understand this can be difficult to navigate, and we are here to support you. In further sections of this guide, we will discuss the top specialist-recommended CLL treatments in detail. 

Consulting a doctor who specializes in CLL is recommended for appropriate treatment planning. Click the button below to find one: 

FIND A CLL SPECIALIST