Stem Cell Transplantation for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Current Indications and Perspectives

Title:Stem Cell Transplantation for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Current Indications and Perspectives

Volume: 13 Issue: 7

Author(s): Andrea Bacigalupo

Affiliation:

Keywords: allogeneic stem cell transplantation, cost-effectiveness, chronic myeloid leukemia, cure, treatment-related mortality, tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Abstract: The introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has reduced the indications for allogeneic stem cell transplants (SCT) in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) from 1500/year in 2000 to approximately 500/year in 2010. The recently updated indications by the European Leukemia Network include advanced-phase CML and nonresponders to second-line TKIs. Changes in transplant programs, over the past decade, have resulted in a significant reduction in transplant related mortality and this has expanded the transplant option to older patients, who may be eligible for SCT. Transplantation for blastic phase CML remains a challenge due to the high rate of post-transplant relapses. Thus, in view of this issue, several studies of TKIs after allogeneic SCT have been undertaken with encouraging results. In conclusion, allogeneic SCT remains a therapeutic option for selected patients with CML and is currently being integrated with the use of TKIs both before and after transplantation.

Cite this article as:

Bacigalupo Andrea, Stem Cell Transplantation for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Current Indications and Perspectives, Current Cancer Drug Targets 2013; 13 (7) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/15680096113136660094