4.2.1 Watchful waiting

Treating asymptomatic early-stage CLL does not improve survival, so an initial ‘watch and wait’ approach is recommended.

Patients with early asymptomatic CLL (Rai 0–1) should be monitored every three months during the first year, and then every three to 12 months, depending on the stability and specific characteristics of their disease (Eichhorst et al. 2021). For those with asymptomatic Rai 0 or 1 disease, this can be with local blood tests and telehealth review if such processes align with the patient’s wishes.