In a nutshell
This study aimed to assess if a response to treatment within 12 months was linked with an improved quality of life in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. Researchers concluded that achieving the best treatment response within 12 months was associated with better quality of life in these patients.
Some background
Chronic myeloid leukemia is a type of bone marrow cancer that affects the immune system. It is often treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors such as imatinib (Gleevec) and nilotinib (Tasigna). These are medications that target certain proteins on cancer cells. They may take time to work and response to treatment can vary. It is important to assess if the time of response to treatment is associated with better outcomes.
Methods & findings
59 patients were included in this study. 31 received imatinib and 28 received nilotinib. Patients were followed-up for an average period of 5 years.
Achieving the best response within 12 months was linked to better physical health, emotional state, and social functioning. Patients treated with nilotinib were more likely to have an optimal treatment response at 12 months (67.9%) compared to those who received imatinib (29%). Achieving the best treatment response at 6 months also improved physical and emotional health. Best treatment at 3 months was not linked with an improved quality of life. No difference in quality of life was found when comparing the 2 drugs.
Furthermore, achieving a good treatment response at 3, 6, or 12 months, predicted a better survival without disease progression. Achieving the best response at 12 months was associated with higher overall survival (patients still alive after a certain period) at 5 years.
The bottom line
The study concluded that achieving the best treatment response at 12 months was associated with better quality of life and overall survival in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia.
The fine print
The study had a small sample size and compared two specific drugs. More research with other treatments is needed to confirm results.
Published By :
BMC cancer
Date :
Aug 03, 2018
