In a nutshell
This study aimed to assess treatment plans and outcomes in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and genetic abnormalities in the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph-positive). The study concluded that adding imatinib (Gleevec) to intensive chemotherapy may be an effective treatment for these patients.
Some background
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a cancer of the bone marrow which can lead to abnormal immune cells. ALL is often associated with a genetic abnormality (Ph-positive) that can affect treatment. It is important to research these treatments to find an effective approach for Ph-positive ALL.
Methods & findings
2591 patients with ALL were treated and 44 were diagnosed with Ph-positive ALL. These 44 patients were divided into 3 groups to receive separate chemotherapy treatment plans. Imatinib was given to each treatment group based on the individual doctor’s decision. Patients were followed up after 3 years.
Overall survival (OS) for the Ph+ group was 73% and event-free survival (EFS – alive without complications) was 64%. OS was 80% in patients treated with chemotherapy plus imatinib and 61% in patients treated with chemotherapy alone. EFS was 66% in patients who underwent imatinib treatment and 61% in patients who did not.
The bottom line
The study concluded that imatinib may be useful addition to treatment in patients with Ph-positive ALL.
The fine print
The study had a small sample size which may have affected results and a variety of chemotherapy treatments.
Published By :
European Journal of Haematology
Date :
Jul 14, 2018
