Managing the Risk of Infection in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in the Era of New Therapies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Patients diagnosed with CLL have an increased susceptibility to infections. Over the years, there has been a shift of the treatment arsenal to an increasing use of chemotherapy-free regimens, particularly small molecule inhibitors. These therapies have proven to be effective and have a favorable toxicity profile. Infections continue to represent a significant complication in the era of novel therapies. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies continue to bring new insights into the effects of modern therapies on the immune system. Evidence supporting infection prevention strategies is scarce. We will review the available recommendations to prevent infections in patients with CLL treated with novel therapies. SUMMARY: New CLL therapies are broadly adopted in routine practice, requiring optimization of their side effects. Timely prevention, recognition, and treatment of infections should remain an important aspect of the standard management of a patient with CLL.