In this interview, Peter Hillmen, MBChB, PhD, FRCP, FRCPath, from Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, Leeds, UK, details the importance of measurable residual disease (MRD) as a sensitive, quick and efficient measure to assess the depth of remission in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). MRD can be detected via various techniques that allow for detection down to 1 in 10,000 cells, looking at either bone marrow or peripheral blood. There is better remission and survival in those determined to be MRD negative compared to those who are MRD positive. With further research, MRD can be utilized to reduce the duration of therapy. This interview took place at the American Society of Oncology (ASCO) 2018 Annual Meeting, held in Chicago, IL
MRD as a marker for depth of remission in CLL
