Imatinib is the standard frontline therapy for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML); however, a substantial number require alternative therapy owing to imatinib intolerance or imatinib resistance. Studies have shown that second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors are efficacious in restoring cytogenetic responses in patients who require subsequent therapy. Quintás-Cardama et al. discuss the second-generation and third-generation targeted agents that have restored cytogenetic response in patients unresponsive to imatinib, and the strategies being explored to improve the long-term outcome.
- Alfonso Quintás-Cardama
- Hagop Kantarjian
- Jorge Cortes