In a nutshell
This study assessed the treatment effects of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA; Vesanoid) and arsenic trioxide (ATO; Trisenox), compared to ATRA with standard chemotherapy on long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). The data showed better long-term HRQoL measures in patients treated with ATRA-ATO compared to ATRA-chemotherapy.
Some background
APL is a rare type of fast-growing acute myeloid leukemia (AML) caused by a mutation involving chromosomes (DNA in the cell nucleus) 15 and 17. The previous standard of care with ATRA, a vitamin A derivative, along with anthracycline-based chemotherapy has been highly effective against APL. However, there have been notable side effects.
Treatment advances have led to the recent introduction of ATO as an alternative combination with ATRA. HRQoL is an important aspect of the drug development process and requires patients’ perceptions on treatment effects. The long-term HRQoL of patients treated with ATRA-ATO compared to those treated with ATRA and standard chemotherapy is still unknown.
Methods & findings
This long-term follow-up study involved 161 patients with APL. 83 patients received ATRA and ATO, and 78 patients had ATRA and standard chemotherapy. HRQoL was assessed using and health status were assessed using standardized questionnaires.
HRQoL results for role functioning, cognitive (mental) functioning, fatigue, severity of shortness of breath, global QoL, physical functioning, and pain favored treatment with ATRA and ATO over ATRA and chemotherapy.
The bottom line
The study showed fewer limitations in daily life activity and better physical health status for patients treated with ATRA and ATO than those treated with ATRA and chemotherapy.
The fine print
The study had a small number of participants and the HRQoL questionnaire used was not specific for AML/APL patients. The route of ATO administration was intravenous and not oral.
Published By :
Blood advances
Date :
Sep 17, 2021
