Using 2 nd generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors in frontline management of chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia

Abstract

Choices in medicine come with responsibility. With several TKI′s (Tyrosine kinase inhibitors) available for front-line management of CML (Chronic Myeloid Leukemia), an astute clinician has to personalise, rationalise and take a pragmatic approach towards selection of the best drug for the ′patient in question′. Though it is hotly debated as to which TKI will triumph, the truth of this debate lies in individualising treatment rather than a general ′all size fits all′ approach with imatinib. I personally believe that the second generation TKI′s will suit most patient clinical profiles rather than prescribing imatinib to all and I have strived to make a strong case for them in front line treatment of CML. Though Imatinib may remain the first line choice for some patients, my efforts in this debate are mainly geared towards breaking the myth that imatinib is the sole ′block buster′ on the CML landscape. © 2014. The South Asian Journal of Cancer.