In a nutshell
This study aimed to compare two induction chemotherapy regimes in patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
This study concluded that both chemotherapy regimes investigated had similar benefits in patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
Some background
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) occurs when abnormal myeloblasts are produced. Myeloblasts are a type of white blood cell that produce other cells. Abnormal myeloblasts cannot produce healthy cells. Lack of healthy cells can lead to a weak immune system, infection and bleeding.
Chemotherapy is a main treatment option for AML. Induction chemotherapy involves high doses of anti-cancer drugs that are used for the initial treatment of cancer. Idarubicin (Zavedos) is a treatment that prevents multiplying of cancer cells and kills them. Daunorubicin (Cerubidine) is a chemotherapy that stops the multiplying of cancer cells. Cytarabine is a chemotherapy for AML. It is one of the most effective treatments and is widely used.
It was not known whether a combination of idarubicin and cytarabine or daunorubicin and cytarabine provided more benefit to AML patients.
Methods & findings
This study involved 299 young adults with newly diagnosed AML. 149 patients were treated with idarubicin and cytarabine. 150 patients were treated with daunorubicin and cytarabine.
Complete remission (no sign of active disease) occurred in 77.6% of all patients. There was no significant difference in complete remission between the two treatment groups.
The survival rates and relapse rates (cancer returning) did not differ between the two groups.
The side effects associated with both treatment regimens were similar.
The bottom line
This study concluded that both treatment combinations provided similar benefit in patients with AML.
What’s next?
Consult your physician about the best treatment option for you.
Published By :
Journal of clinical oncology
Date :
Jun 20, 2017
