Hillmen P, Rawstron AC, Brock K, et al. - In a phase II trial named CLARITY, researchers investigated whether ibrutinib plus venetoclax can afford an option to eradicate detectable chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) leading to the discontinuance of therapy in patients with relapsed or refractory CLL. Measurable residual disease (MRD) eradication following 12 months of combined therapy was the primary endpoint, and response by International Workshop on CLL criteria, safety, and progression-free and overall survival were also assessed as key secondary endpoints. Among 53 patients, the primary endpoint was achieved in the blood of 28 (53%) and the marrow of 19 (36%). The response was elicited in 47 patients (89%), and complete remission was achieved in 27 (51%). Overall, findings revealed good tolerability of this combined therapy in this patient population. A high rate of MRD eradication resulting in cessation of therapy in some patients was also achieved. For relapsed and refractory CLL, encouraging progression-free and overall survival rates were provided by this therapy.