Health-Related Quality of Life and Treatment of Older Adults with Acute Myeloid Leukemia: a Young International Society of Geriatric Oncology Review Paper
AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe treatment landscape for older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is evolving. Many treatments have comparable efficacy making their impact on quality of life (QoL) an important differentiating factor. In this review, we discuss QoL in older adults with AML, focusing on therapeutic and observational trials that have incorporated QoL assessments.Recent FindingsHealth-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a multi-dimensional concept incorporating physical, mental, emotional, and social functioning domains. HRQoL components overlap with components of geriatric assessment, a multidisciplinary d...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - November 26, 2019 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Treatment of MDS/MPN and the MDS/MPN IWG International Trial: ABNL MARRO
AbstractPurpose of ReviewMDS/MPNs comprise a group of rare hematologic malignancies that balance features of myeloproliferation and bone marrow failure. Given overlapping clinical features and rarity of incidence, MDS/MPNs have long posed a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Herein, we sought to review recent advances in diagnosis and emerging therapeutic strategies and highlight the upcoming ABNL MARRO study which aims to individualize therapy for patients with MDS/MPN.Recent FindingsFocused study of molecular mutations in MDS/MPNs has provided improved diagnostic clarity. Specific gene mutation or patterns of mutation...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - November 26, 2019 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Mutation-Driven Therapy in MDS
AbstractPurpose of ReviewGenetic sequencing in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) has provided an improved understanding of the complexity and heterozygosity of the disease. More importantly, our molecular understanding of MDS is leading to rapid advancements and personalized therapy for our patients. Herein, we review the current mutation-driven treatment landscape in MDS, first focusing on individual mutations. We then discuss the effect of specific gene mutations on response and outcomes to standard therapies as well as to cutting edge investigational therapies.Recent FindingsMolecular annotation of MDS can predict response...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - November 22, 2019 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Towards a Personalized Treatment of Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
AbstractPurpose of ReviewTreatment goals and ambitions have even been upwardly revised since demonstration was made that under certain conditions, treatment-free remission was possible. Herein, we will discuss on how to try tailoring treatment choices to the unique characteristics of each patient.Recent FindingsSince the first-generation ATP-competitive TKI imatinib was made available in the clinic in 2001, second-generation drugs such as dasatinib, nilotinib and bosutinib and the third-generation TKI ponatinib have broadened the therapeutic armamentarium, providing effective salvage against intolerance and different types...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - November 22, 2019 Category: Hematology Source Type: research

Targeting the JAK/STAT Pathway in T Cell Lymphoproliferative Disorders
AbstractPurpose of ReviewT cell lymphoproliferative disorders represent a diverse group of hematologic malignancies with poor prognosis underscoring the need for novel therapeutic approaches. Disruption of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway has been described in this group of blood cancers and may represent an approach for targeted therapy. Here, we summarize the current data describing the disruptions of JAK/STAT signaling in T cell malignancies and focus on the existing evidence for exploitation of this pathway with targeted therapies.Recent FindingsTo date, preclinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of JAK/STAT inhi...
Source: Current Hematologic Malignancy Reports - November 17, 2019 Category: Hematology Source Type: research