alarming Richter statistic

[Guest guest]

I just read a module from Clinical Care Options:

Pathogenesis and Progression of Lymphoproliferative Disease: Evolving

Concepts

Program Director: andra M. Levine, MD

Her review of CLL states:

" During the natural course of CLL, Richter's transformation may develop

in an estimated 30% of patients, although the true incidence likely is

higher. Richter's transformation is defined as the development of an

aggressive or transformed type of lymphoma arising from CLL "

Every article I ever read estimate between 2 and 8% of CLLers transform.

Can anyone shed any light on this huge number?? The source clearly

seems reputable.

Thanks, Helene