Hairy Cell Leukemia Experts Impart Advice on Care and Support

CURE had the privilege of attending the Hairy Cell Leukemia Foundation 2025 Conference in Bologna, Italy, where medical experts gathered to discuss advances in research, treatment and patient care for hairy cell leukemia (HCL).

During the conference, CURE spoke with leading specialists and asked, “What is one thing you wish every patient with hairy cell leukemia understood about their treatment or ongoing care?” Their insights highlighted the treatability of this rare disease, the importance of expert care, and the role of education and advocacy in improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Dima El-Sharkawi, consultant hematologist at the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust Hospital in London, emphasized the rarity of HCL and the need for patients to be educated and connected with support networks. She noted that specialized groups, such as those for women or patients of Hispanic ancestry, can provide targeted resources, helping patients navigate treatment decisions and, in some cases, pursue active surveillance or clinical trial options suited to their individual needs.

Dr. Alina Gerrie, hematologist and assistant professor in the Divisions of Hematology and Medical Oncology at the University of British Columbia and a Clinician Investigator at BC Cancer Centre for Lymphoid Cancer, stressed the value of consulting with HCL experts. Even if primary care occurs locally, seeing a specialist provides a deeper understanding of disease progression, treatment alternatives and long-term management, ensuring patients are fully informed and empowered in their care.

Dr. Alessandro Gozzetti, associate professor in the Department of Medical, Surgical and Neuroscience Sciences at the University of Siena, highlighted that HCL is highly treatable and curable with current therapies when managed by experienced centers. He emphasized the importance of clinical expertise in navigating treatment choices and optimizing outcomes.

Dr. Kerry A. Rogers, hematologist-oncologist and associate professor of Internal Medicine at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James, described how long-term data show excellent life expectancy and quality of life for most patients. She highlighted ongoing research into prognostic markers and novel immune-based therapies, reinforcing that patients have access to evolving treatment options.

Dr. Jacqueline Barrientos, chief of Hematologic Malignancies and director of Oncology Research at Mount Sinai Medical Center, underscored the importance of patient advocacy, education and support. Across all discussions, a unifying message emerged: patients with HCL can achieve durable remissions and excellent quality of life when treated by experts, supported through education, and connected with research and advocacy networks.

References

1. Understanding Hairy Cell Leukemia: Presentations and Complications, by Dr. Dima El-Sharkawi. CURE; Nov. 3, 2025. https://www.curetoday.com/view/understanding-hairy-cell-leukemia-presentations-and-complications
2. Insights on Fertility and Survivorship in Hairy Cell Leukemia, by Dr. Alessandro Gozzetti. CURE; Oct. 24, 2025. https://www.curetoday.com/view/insights-on-fertility-and-survivorship-in-hairy-cell-leukemia
3. Insights Into Advancing Care and Research in Hairy Cell Leukemia, by Dr. Kerry A. Rogers. CURE; Oct. 23, 2025. https://www.curetoday.com/view/insights-into-advancing-care-and-research-in-hairy-cell-leukemia

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