Sex differences in incidence and outcome of chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients

Observational studies have consistently reported a reduced incidence and superior survival for female patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). These results were corroborated by different national cancer database reports and confirmed in recent prospective trials. Whether improved survival for women is attributable to increased comorbidities in men, better response and/or tolerance of therapy in women or an intrinsic difference in the molecular biology of the disease (or a combination thereof) is unknown. It is through prospective trials that evaluate known molecular, genetic and clinical prognostic predictors that one will better understand these differences and determine whether treatment should be tailored to biological clinical profiles or more to sex.