Quality of life in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: a neglected issue

Abstract

Improvement in quality of life (QoL), together with overall survival and disease-free survival, is a relevant endpoint for patients affected by chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a disease still considered as not curable. In addition, the study of the QoL can significantly contribute to investigate particular aspects related to different treatments which generally are not taken into account in clinical trials. A comprehensive approach to CLL should include also in the day-by-day practice the development of an appropriate and friendly interaction between the physician and patients aimed at improving the process of adaptation encompassing either the 'watch and wait' phase or the treatment period. The present review points out the role of QoL in the global patient management and care of CLL patients also in view of changes in the philosophy of treatment we have witnessed nowadays.