Aetiology

The cause of CLL is unknown but is thought to develop as a result of an accumulation of multiple genetic events affecting oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, which leads to increased cell survival and resistance to apoptosis. (1) There is no evidence that exposure to ionizing radiation, drugs or chemicals are associated with an increased risk (2).

There may be a genetic predisposition to CLL.

• an increase risk of CLL and other primary cancers have been observed in relatives of patients with CLL
• currently no genes responsible for increased risk of CLL has been identified (2)

Reference:

1. Eichhorst B, Robak T, Montserrat E, et al; ESMO Guidelines Committee. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: ESMO clinical practice guidelines for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Ann Oncol. 2021 Jan;32(1):23-33.
2. Martínez-Trillos A, Quesada V, Villamor N, et al. Recurrent gene mutations in CLL. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2013;792:87-107.