Final Comments From Panelists on Managing CML

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In the final segment of the discussion, panelists share their closing thoughts on the treatment of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Neil Pravin Shah, MD, stresses that monitoring patients is essential, whether they are remaining on or discontinuing therapy. In order to achieve optimal outcomes, patients with CML should be referred to a team of oncologists who are seasoned in treating this disease, particularly when a patient is not responding as well as hoped, B. Douglas Smith, MD, suggests.

There are several new therapies available for the treatment of CML, including highly active agents for patient with resistant or intolerant disease, notes Elias Jabbour, MD. These therapies enhave the importance of monitoring response. If one therapy stops working, there are other options. Most patients will do well on modern therapies, Stuart L. Goldberg, MD, adds; however, if outcomes do not seem to match expectations, seeking another interpretation of a test or finding help with a management decision could improve outcomes and result in proper care for patients.