At the 2025 Malaysian Society of Haematology (MSH) Annual Scientific Meeting, Dr. Joanne Lee presented two highly anticipated sessions that explored precision medicine approaches in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), emphasizing the evolving role of targeted therapy, risk stratification, and individualized care.
In her first talk, “Optimizing the Role of BTKi in CLL,” Dr. Lee delivered an in-depth overview of how Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi) have transformed the CLL treatment landscape. She presented evidence across multiple pivotal trials—including RESONATE, ELEVATE-TN, ASCEND, and ALPINE—comparing first- and second-generation BTKi such as Ibrutinib, Acalabrutinib, and Zanubrutinib, particularly in high-risk subsets with TP53 mutations or 17p deletions. She also addressed fixed-duration regimens like Venetoclax plus Obinutuzumab and discussed their limitations in overcoming adverse genomic profiles. Through an elderly patient case, she explored real-world treatment considerations, including cardiovascular comorbidities and sequencing of BTKi therapy.
Her second session, “Mantle Cell Lymphoma: How to Treat at Diagnosis and Relapse,” tackled the nuanced management of MCL, incorporating the latest evidence from landmark trials such as TRIANGLE, SHINE, and ECHO. Dr. Lee highlighted the enduring role of cytarabine and rituximab maintenance in younger, transplant-eligible patients, while discussing the rising prominence of BTKi as part of first-line or consolidation strategies. For older or transplant-ineligible patients, she reviewed data on BR-based backbones with or without BTKi and commented on the clinical implications of MRD-guided treatment deferral. The relapsed/refractory landscape was also addressed, including novel approaches involving CAR-T, bispecifics, and non-covalent BTKi like Pirtobrutinib.
Together, these sessions underscored a forward-looking, biology-driven approach to lymphoid malignancies—offering MSH attendees practical insights into tailoring treatment for diverse patient populations based on genetic risk, comorbidities, and evolving therapeutic options.
