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Richter's Transformation

Richter's Transformation

First described in 1928, Richter’s Transformation (RT), also called Richter’s Syndrome (RS), occurs when CLL / SLL changes into a related but much more aggressive large cell lymphoma in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). 

Often, the transformation is into diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), but other lymphomas are seen, including Hodgkin’s lymphoma which generally has a better prognosis.

As patients with CLL / SLL are living longer, the long-term risk of developing RT is increasing. Most RT is fast moving, unlike CLL / SLL which is usually slow growing or indolent. RT demands quick intervention. Richter’s Transformation is difficult to treat and remains one of the most significant unmet needs in CLL. 

A clinical trial is often the best choice for Richter’s Transformation.

Action Item for Richter’s Transformation

Find a clinical trial.

A clinical trial is often the best choice for Richter’s Transformation. Begin by looking at our Additional Reading below.

Find a clinical trial.

A clinical trial is often the best choice for Richter’s Transformation. Begin by looking at our Additional Reading below.

FEATURE

ASH 2020: Dr. Arnon Nagler on Safety and Efficacy of CD19-CAR-T Cells in Richter’s Transformation After Targeted Therapy for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

At the virtual ASH 2020 Annual Conference and ExpositionDr. John Pagel of Swedish Hospital and one of CLL Society’s directors interviewed Dr. Arnon Nagler of Sheba Medical Center in Israel concerning using “in-house” CAR-T cells made locally at his medical center for Richter’s Transformation patients. 

Richter’s Transformation (RT) is usually an aggressive transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia into a fastmoving lymphoma, usually clonally related, DLBCL (diffuse large B-cell lymphoma). RT is associated with a very poor response to most therapies and has a discouraging prognosis. 

It remains one of the most pressing unmet needs in CLL patients. Read More.

ADDITIONAL READING

NEWLY DIAGNOSED

LIST OF CLL DOCTORS

NORMAL LAB VALUES

TESTING AND IMAGING

ASK THE EXPERTS

ABBREVIATIONS AND GLOSSARY

FREE CLL EXPERT OPINION

MEDICINE CABINET

CLL Society Fast Find