Genomic markers are among the strongest prognostic factors in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Chromosomal aberrations, IGHV and TP53 mutation status are well-established and essential to discriminate between a more indolent course of disease and a high-risk CLL, which requires an alternative treatment regimen. In addition, a variety of gene mutations with unclear prognostic value have been identified: SF3B1, ATM, and BIRC3 may describe CLL with adverse outcome, whereas NOTCH1 is predictive for resistance against CD20 antibodies. Integration of novel drivers into a small set of key pathways forms the basis for future pathogenetic and therapeutic implications.
© 2016 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg.