The role of tyrosine kinase inhibitors as a post-hematopoietic stem cell transplant continuation therapy for pediatric acute leukemia: a systematic review.

What was studied

This was a review of TKI drugs given after a stem cell transplant. The patients were children with acute leukemia. The aim was to stop relapse. The team searched several databases. 765 articles were found, and 16 studies were used.

What they found

TKIs went to children with certain gene changes. The drugs included imatinib and dasatinib, among others. Treatment ran from 10 months to 3 years. TKIs were generally well tolerated. Side effects included low blood counts, liver trouble and skin problems. Some children had lasting remission. Some also had relapse, after the drug was stopped or when the cancer resisted it.

What it means for patients

The authors said TKIs can serve as targeted care after transplant in select children. This was mainly for high-risk disease driven by a gene change. They said gene tests and checks guide the choice of drug.

Why it is not certain yet

The right length of treatment is unclear. Long-term safety is unclear in children. Results were reported in select children. The authors call for prospective studies to set standard plans.

Source

The role of tyrosine kinase inhibitors as a post-hematopoietic stem cell transplant continuation therapy for pediatric acute leukemia: a systematic review.

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