gerryk, I am 70 yrs old and have cll. I was diagnosed 7 yrs ago. Some<br>people with cll never need treatment. My biggest problem as far as<br>symptoms was as a result of my ever increasing white cell count . It got<br>to a point where my white cells caused swollen lymph nodes and spleen. At<br>that point my Geisinger cancer doc said it was time to begin treatment. I<br>was able to get into a clinical trial. There were 3 random types of<br>treatment. The first was the current standard chemo route. I think that<br>drug is Bendamustine along with Rituximab. The second was several infusions<br>of Rituximab in iv form over a period of a couple of months while taking<br>Ibrutinab in capsule form daily. the third was just taking ibrutinab daily.<br>I was chosen for option 2. They list several possible side effects. For me<br>the iv could have been water. I had zero side effects. I take the Ibrutinib<br>daily and the only side effect I experience is an occasional dry cough. I<br>am very happy with my treatment. At this point my bloodwork is much<br>improved and my lymph nodes are not swollen. I was told another person at<br>Geisinger is doing option 3 and is doing well. There are over 500 people in<br>the trial. For any Vietnam veterans out there cll is one of several cancers<br>caused by being around Agent Orange. If you were there you are considered<br>exposed. GMACK<br>