Acalabrutinib with venetoclax for previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia or small lymphocytic lymphoma

Acalabrutinib in combination with venetoclax is in clinical development for the first-line treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL). CLL and SLL are a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells. In CLL the spongy material found inside some bones (bone marrow) produces too many white blood cells called lymphocytes, which are not fully developed and do not work properly. This can cause a range of problems, such as an increased risk of infections, tiredness, swollen glands, and unusual bleeding or bruising. Despite there being several therapeutic options, CLL still has poor outcomes and often returns after treatment.