Prognosis and Molecular Monitoring in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors with activity against BCR-ABL form the cornerstone of CML therapy, and are particularly effective in those with chronic-phase disease. Because some patients exhibit primary resistance or secondary failure to TKI therapy, it is recommended that continued monitoring of disease burden be performed. In this article, we review methods of detecting the Philadelphia chromosome and BCR-ABL transcript, and discuss the correlation of response with patient outcomes. Expert guidelines that incorporate definitions and milestones of response are referenced to aid in clinical decision-making.