In a nutshell
This study looked at using platelet count to measure response to decitabine (Dacogen) chemotherapy in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Researchers found that recovered platelet count after treatment is linked with a better response to treatment.
Some background
Elderly patients often have a poorer response to leukemia treatments. One reason is lower tolerance to chemotherapy drugs. Decitabine is a chemotherapy medication that is usually given to patients who cannot tolerate standard treatment for AML.
Platelets are blood cells that help with clotting. They are often reduced during treatment for leukemia. It is important to research if platelet levels can be used to predict response to treatment.
Methods & findings
117 elderly patients with AML were included the study. Patients were treated with decitabine, G-CSF (a drug stimulating the bone marrow to produce blood cells), cytarabine (Cytosar-U) and aclarubicin (D-CAG).
Overall response was seen in 71.8% of patients after the first cycle of treatment. Complete response (no signs of disease after treatment) was seen in 58.1%. Patients responding to treatment had higher platelet counts on day 14 after treatment. Higher platelet count was linked with increased overall survival.
The bottom line
The study concluded that a higher platelet count after treatment was linked with a better response to chemotherapy including decitabine in elderly patients with AML.
The fine print
The study had a small sample size. Larger studies may be needed to confirm results.
Published By :
BMC cancer
Date :
Dec 19, 2018
