The evolving role of stem cell transplantation in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

This article describes the current role and perspectives of "new" allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Clinical trials and minimal residual disease (MRD) studies provide clear evidence that graft-versus-leukemia activity is working in CLL and can provide long-term MRD-free survival in up to 50% of patients undergoing alloSCT. AlloSCT is effective also in poor-risk CLL as defined by the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation transplant consensus. Novel forms of (reduced intensity) conditioning have resulted in dramatic reduction of early morbidity and mortality of alloSCT in CLL.