Maintenance therapy in acute myeloid leukemia revisited: will new agents rekindle an old interest?

Abstract

Purpose of review: The potential and limitations of the established cytotoxic chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia have been assessed by recent large-scale clinical trials. A further progress would require the contribution of alternative approaches.

Recent findings: Early results from more specific, less toxic, targeted agents are now available. Major options under investigation are demethylating drugs and inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, farnesylation and angiogenesis.

Conclusion: Some of the novel agents, such as demethylating drugs, appear predestined for prolonged maintenance treatment due to their delayed antileukemic mechanism.