Lenalidomide Plus Bendamustine and Rituximab for Untreated CLL/SLL

Lenalidomide in Combination With Bendamustine and Rituximab for Previously Untreated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia or Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma(CLL/SLL): a Phase I Study

Lenalidomide belongs to a group of drugs called immunomodulatory drugs (IMiD) that can modify or regulate the functioning of the immune system. It is an FDA approved drug for people with multiple myeloma. It is not currently approved for use in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), but it does appear effective in CLL when used alone, and is being studied for use in combination with chemotherapy in this and other lymphomas and leukemias.

In this research study we are hoping to learn more about the effects of lenalidomide on CLL when given in combination with bendamustine and rituximab, which is a highly effective regimen for initial therapy of CLL/SLL. The investigators will be looking for the highest dose of lenalidomide that can be given safely, without causing any serious or unmanageable side effects.

Subjects will receive lenalidomide, bendamustine and rituximab in cycles of 28 days (4 weeks). Lenalidomide will be administered orally once daily on days 8-21 of cycle 1 and on days 1-21 of all subsequent cycles. Bendamustine will be administered through a vein (IV infusion) on days 1 and 2 of each cycle. Rituximab will be administered as an IV infusion on day 1 of each cycle.

Subjects will receive routine blood tests and physical exam during each cycle. Tumor assessments by CT scan will be performed during cycles 2, 4, and 6.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with B-cell CLL or SLL (chronic lymphocytic leukemia or small lymphocytic leukemia)
• Life expectancy > 3 months
• Organ and marrow function with protocol parameters
• Able to take aspirin daily

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age >80 years
• Prior systemic therapy for CLL/SLL including chemotherapy or antibody therapy
• Pregnant or breast-feeding
• Serious medical condition, laboratory abnormality, or psychiatric illness that would prevent the subject from signing informed consent
• Known hypersensitivity to thalidomide or lenalidomide
• Prior use of lenalidomide
• Concurrent use of other anti-cancer agents or treatments
• HIV positive
• Prior history of another malignancy unless disease free for at least 2 years
• Uncontrolled intercurrent illness