What Are Treatments For T-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?

T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (T-PLL) is a rare and aggressive type of mature T-cell leukemia. It is characterized by the proliferation of prolymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) in the blood, bone marrow, lymph nodes, liver, and spleen. Due to its aggressive nature, T-PLL requires immediate treatment. The treatment options for T-PLL are limited and the disease is often resistant to conventional chemotherapy. However, several treatment strategies have been used, including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation.

1. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often the first line of treatment for T-PLL. It involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. The most commonly used chemotherapy regimen for T-PLL is a combination of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP). However, the disease often relapses after initial response to chemotherapy.

2. Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets the specific genes, proteins, or the environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. Alemtuzumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD52 antigen on the surface of T-PLL cells, has shown significant activity in T-PLL. It is often used as a first-line treatment or for patients who have relapsed after chemotherapy.

3. Stem Cell Transplantation

Stem cell transplantation is a procedure that replaces the patient's diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells. It is considered the only curative treatment for T-PLL. However, it is associated with significant risks and is usually reserved for patients who are in remission after initial treatment. The two types of stem cell transplants are autologous (using the patient's own stem cells) and allogeneic (using stem cells from a donor).

4. Clinical Trials 

Clinical trials are not just a last resort for treating T-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, the subtype of T-PLL, 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 T-PLL clinical trial options, visit HealthTree's T-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 T-PLL specialist.

Want to Learn More About T-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?

Keep reading HealthTree for T-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia's 101 pages!

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