Guiding Patients Through Active Surveillance in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

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Source: MedPage Today

Original: https://www.medpagetoday.com/beyond-diagnosis/cll/119880...

Published: Fri, 13 Feb 2026 13:21:33 -0500

In "Beyond Diagnosis: CLL," Cleveland Clinic hematologist-oncologist Allison Winter and host John Mangels discuss communication with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients.[1] Physicians should effectively and empathetically guide patients in an active surveillance ("watch and wait") strategy that is standard for most asymptomatic early-stage patients.[1][2][3] This approach involves regular blood tests and physical examinations to monitor the disease without immediate treatment.[1][2][4] Treatment is started only when there are signs of progression or deterioration.[2][4][5] In patients with low risk (Rai 0, Binet A) or intermediate risk without activity, watch and wait is applied.[3] Many patients with CLL have a favorable prognosis with a near-normal life expectancy.[2] General practitioners help monitor for signs of progression in collaboration with hematologists.[2]