Monitoring Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in the Real World: Gaps and Opportunities

Publication date: Available online 2 September 2015 Source:Clinical Lymphoma Myeloma and Leukemia Author(s): Stuart L. Goldberg In clinical trials, where treatment algorithms and monitoring schedules are tightly prescribed by research protocols, outcomes for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) have been excellent with >90% 5-year survival rates. However, outside clinical trials, in the so-called “real world”, monitoring schedules are more variable, with less than 40% of patients undergoing quantitative PCR molecular testing 3-4 times during the first year following diagnosis as recommended by NCCN/ELN evidence based guidelines. Results from chart reviews, claims-based databases, and observational databases suggest that carefully monitored CML patients are more likely to be adherent to medications, incur fewer hospitalizations, experience lower overall treatment costs, and have better progression-free survival and overall survival compared to patients who are not monitored. Regular monitoring provides valuable early information on treatment responses that physicians can use to modify treatment. Unfortunately physician perceived resource barriers, lack of familiarity, and lack of agreement have restricted monitoring guideline adoptions. Multi-faceted approaches to encourage appropriate monitoring are needed to improve clinical outcomes and reduce costs in the real world.
Source: Clinical Lymphoma Myeloma and Leukemia - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research