A Study to Compare Mabthera (Rituximab), Fludarabine and Cyclophosphamide to Mabthera and Chlorambucil in Participants With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia and Unfavorable Somatic Status

This multi-center, randomized study compared the efficacy and safety of MabThera (rituximab) in combination with either fludarabine and cyclophosphamide or with chlorambucil in participants with previously untreated B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia and unfavorable somatic status. Participants were randomized to receive Mabthera (375 mg/m2 intravenously \[IV\] Day 1 of Cycle 1, 500 mg/m2 IV Day 1 Cycles 2-6) with either fludarabine (20 mg/m2 IV or 32 mg/m2 orally Days 1-3) and cyclophosphamide (150 mg/m2 IV or orally Days 1-3) or with chlorambucil (10 mg/m2 orally Days 1-7) for 6 cycles of 28 days. Anticipated time on study treatment was 24 weeks.