CKT more important than del(17p) in CLL, group finds

Among patients without CKT, OS was 84% in those with neither del(17p) nor del(11q), 80% in those with del(11q), and 78% in those with del(17p) (P=0.52).

In multivariable analysis, OS was significantly associated with CKT (P=0.011) and fludarabine-refractory disease (P=0.004) but not del(17p) (P=0.981).

“So, in summary, complex karyotype appears to be a more important predictor of outcomes in patients with relapsed or refractory CLL treated with ibrutinib-based regimens than the presence of del(17p) by FISH,” Dr Thompson said.

“Patients without complex karyotype have a low rate of disease progression, including those who have del(17p). Most progressions during ibrutinib therapy occur late, beyond the 12-month time point, but survival is short after disease progression.”

*Information in the abstract differs from that presented at the meeting.