Leukemia - Chronic Myeloid - CML: Latest Research

Approved by the Cancer.Net Editorial Board, 03/2018

ON THIS PAGE: You will read about the scientific research being done now to learn more about CML and how to treat it. Use the menu to see other pages.

Doctors are working to learn more about CML, ways to prevent it, how to best treat it, and how to provide the best care to people diagnosed with this disease. The following areas of research may include new options for patients through clinical trials. Most cancer centers are actively involved in clinical trials aimed at increasing the number of people who are cured of CML. Always talk with your doctor about the best diagnostic and treatment options for you.

  • Improving current treatments. Research focused on increasing the effectiveness of CML treatments are listed below:

    • Combining imatinib with other drugs

    • Determining whether people with CML can safely stop taking TKIs after a molecular remission

    • Creating vaccines against BCR-ABL

    • Developing newer methods of bone marrow/stem cell transplantation aimed at decreasing the side effects

    • Evaluating other new TKIs for CML that does not respond to imatinib

    • Looking for unexpected long-term side effects

  • Treatment to target remaining CML cells. Several laboratory studies are focused on possible treatments that may help destroy the few remaining CML cells in most patients who have received TKIs so they can stop medical treatment.

  • Palliative care. Clinical trials are underway to find better ways of reducing symptoms and side effects of current CML treatments to improve patients’ comfort and quality of life.

Looking for More About the Latest Research?

If you would like additional information about the latest areas of research regarding CML, explore these related items that take you outside of this guide:

The next section in this guide is Coping with Treatment. It offers some guidance in how to cope with the physical, emotional, and social changes that CML and its treatment can bring. Use the menu to choose a different section to read in this guide.