A recent observational cohort study, led by Dr. Vasile Musteata, MD, PhD, MPH, aimed to comprehensively outline the epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory aspects of CLL, along with its treatment options. This study, presented at the 2023 Society of Hematologic Oncology Annual Meeting, offers valuable insights for oncology nurses in managing CLL patients.
The research, conducted at the Institute of Oncology of Moldova from 2015 to 2022, involved the analysis of 110 CLL patients. Among the notable findings, the study indicated that CLL is more prevalent among older individuals, primarily males aged 55 and above, especially in urban settings.
Patients in the cohort received various antineoplastic therapies. Notably, chlorambucil and rituximab were administered as monotherapies, while combination therapies like R-CHOP, R-COP, and rituximab, fludarabine, and cyclophosphamide (RFC) were also employed in treatment regimens.
Of the total cohort, the majority (53.64%) of newly diagnosed patients hailed from urban areas. The age distribution revealed that the most prevalent age groups were 65-74 years (34%) and 55-64 years (37%). Males exhibited a higher incidence (59.3%) compared to females (40.7%).
Furthermore, the study highlighted the development of secondary conditions in CLL patients. Autoimmune thrombocytopenia was observed in 21.81% of patients, while 24.45% experienced autoimmune hemolytic anemia, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care addressing these coexisting conditions.
The Binet staging system was employed to categorize patients, with 63% diagnosed at Stage A and 35% at Stage B. Notably, the study found that patients at Stage B had a higher 5-year overall survival (OS) rate (80.33%) compared to those at Stage C (66.67%). Additionally, the RFC regimen demonstrated impressive results, boasting an 88.89% complete response rate and a 5-year OS rate of 84.35%.
Dr. Musteata and the research team underscored the effectiveness of the RFC regimen, which exhibited remarkable complete response rates and OS outcomes. This study’s insights provide oncology nurses with valuable information to better understand CLL patient demographics, associated conditions, and treatment options, ultimately enhancing the care and support they offer to CLL patients throughout their journey.
Reference
Musteata V, Chirca V, Pinzari S, et al. Updates of the Epidemiological Profile and Management of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Abstract CLL-247. Presented at the 11th Annual Meeting of the Society of Hematologic Oncology; September 6-9, 2023; Houston, Texas.
