In conclusion, we found that the vast majority of patients with CLL have a precursor state from 6 months to 6 years before the development of clinically recognized leukemia. Future studies are needed to provide insights into the pathogenesis of MBL and predictors for CLL progression. A better description of mechanisms mediating B-cell clonal proliferation and survival will ultimately enhance our understanding of the pathophysiology of MBL and CLL and allow for the identification of new molecular targets.
