Long-term BCR-ABL1 Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Therapy in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

With the success of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy for the treatment of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), CML is now treated as a chronic disease. As such, the community of oncologists may see patients with CML more often than the primary-care physician and must focus on long-term management of adverse events and adherence. BCR-ABL1 TKIs are effective therapies in CML but are associated with distinct safety profiles. Thus, selection of long-term treatment with any TKI requires assessment of patient comorbidities and regular monitoring to identify the potential emergence of adverse effects or new risk factors. With a focus on long-term safety, this review provides a holistic picture of the primary care needs of patients with CML, emphasizing on the importance of community oncologists who in many cases act as both oncologists and primary-care physicians.