Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia trends and features at a tertiary hospital in South Africa (2011–2016)

Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a common lymphoproliferative disorder in developed countries. However, this condition is rare in Africa and there is a paucity of information on CLL, specifically on the continent. Aim: This study described, retrospectively, the frequency, demographics and laboratory features of CLL cases diagnosed from 2011 to 2016. Setting: Department of Pathology, National Health Laboratory Service, Tygerberg Academic Hospital, Cape Town. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed for all CLL diagnoses made between 01 January 2011 and 31 December 2016. Results: Eighty CLL cases were diagnosed between 2011 and 2016. Men and women presented with the disease equally (48.8% vs. 51.2%, p > 0.05). The mean age at diagnosis was 66.79 years (range of 37–95 years) and the modal age range (36.3%) was 60–69 years. Men presented with the disease at a significantly younger age than women (mean = 64 years vs. mean = 69.5 years, p < 0.05). There were three (3.75%) human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients (age range 43–50 years). Chromosome 13q14 deletion was found in 6 out of 19 patients (31.6%). Trisomy 12 and deletion 11q22 were found in 5 out of 21 (24%) and 7 out of 21 (33.3%) patients, respectively. Deletions 13q34 and 17p were negative for 6 and 20 patients, respectively. Conclusion: Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia at our facility presented equally in men and women. Men presented with the disease at a younger age than women. Additionally, our findings suggested that HIV is uncommon amongst CLL patients tested for HIV.