[The role of alpha-interferon therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia]

Alpha-interferons are widely accepted and used in chronic myeloid leukaemia. The standard indication is the chronic phase, and it seems to be clear, that by prolonging the chronic phase interferon therapy results in better overall survival than busulphan or hydroxyurea (this comparison needs metaanalysis) monotherapy. A review and recommendation is given considering the indications (with a special attention to stemcell transplantation), dosage, contraindications and monitoring interferon treatment.