Rituximab and GM-CSF in Treating Patients With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Diagnosis of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia meeting 1 of the following criteria: Previously treated stage III or IV or earlier stage disease with evidence of active disease, as defined by ≥ 1 of the following: Weight loss > 10% within the past 6 months Extreme fatigue Fever or night sweats without evidence of infection Worsening anemia or thrombocytopenia Progressive lymphocytosis with a rapid lymphocyte doubling time Marked hypogammaglobulinemia or paraproteinemia Lymphadenopathy > 5 cm in diameter Previously untreated stage 0-II disease with symptoms or significant fatigue or at high risk of progression due to of B2 microglobulin > 3.0 mg/mL Patients who are ≥ 70 years of age with previously untreated stage III or IV or earlier stage disease requiring treatment but who refused chemotherapy are eligible PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS: Performance status Zubrod 0-2 Life expectancy Not specified Hematopoietic See Disease Characteristics Hepatic Bilirubin < 2.0 mg/dL* (elevated bilirubin allowed if due to of Gilbert's disease) NOTE: *Liver dysfunction due to lymphocytic organ infiltration allowed Renal Creatinine < 2.5 mg/dL* NOTE: *Renal dysfunction due to lymphocytic organ infiltration allowed Other Not pregnant or nursing Negative pregnancy test Fertile patients must use effective contraception No active viral infection (e.g., viral hepatitis) PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Chemotherapy See Disease Characteristics