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
CAR T Therapy for Richter's Transformation
CAR-T Therapy for Richter’s Transformation
In science and medicine, information is constantly changing and may become out-of-date as new data emerge. All articles and interviews are informational only, should never be considered medical advice, and should never be acted on without review with your health care team.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Brian Koffman
The Bottom Line:
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy can provide durable remissions in a subset of patients with Richter’s transformation. Side effects, including cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity, were common but usually manageable.
Who Performed the Research and Where Was it Presented:
Dr. Adam Kittai and colleagues from Ohio State University presented the results at the American Society for Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting in 2023.
ADDITIONAL READING
RECENT NEWS
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NEWLY DIAGNOSED
LIST OF CLL DOCTORS
NORMAL LAB VALUES
TESTING AND IMAGING
ASK THE EXPERTS
ABBREVIATIONS AND GLOSSARY
FREE CLL EXPERT OPINION
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