Stem Cell Transplantation for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): Current Indications and Perspectives

Abstract

The introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has reduced the indications for allogeneic stem cell transplants (SCT) in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) from 1500/year in 2000 to approximately 500/year in 2010. The recently updated indications by the European Leukemia Network include advanced-phase CML and nonresponders to second-line TKIs. Changes in transplant programs, over the past decade, have resulted in a significant reduction in transplant related mortality and this has expanded the transplant option to older patients, who may be eligible for SCT. Transplantation for blastic phase CML remains a challenge due to the high rate of post-transplant relapses. Thus, in view of this issue, several studies of TKIs after allogeneic SCT have been undertaken with encouraging results. In conclusion, allogeneic SCT remains a therapeutic option for selected patients with CML and is currently being integrated with the use of TKIs both before and after transplantation.