Introduction to a How I Treat series on acute myeloid leukemia

Abstract

Treatment for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is being transformed for some patients, as targeted agents increase complete remission rates and survival when appropriately applied. Although the efficacy of newer regimens has been established in major clinical trials, use in routine practice is often challenging, and careful choices need to be made. Associate Editor Selina M. Luger introduces this case-based How I Treat series designed to provide guidance in those circumstances. Wei et al discuss how to maximize the benefits when the venetoclax-azacitidine regimen was indicated, while Issa and colleagues discuss differentiation therapy, highlighting how the clinical course for patients varies from what is seen with intensive chemotherapy-based induction regimens. Green and Wang tackle the challenge of managing patients with secondary AML. Finally, Roboz and Canaani outline how maintenance can benefit selected patients not undergoing allogeneic transplant, while exploring the many unanswered questions that arise in clinical practice.