← Back
Medical glossary

TKI: tyrosine kinase inhibitor

TKIs are targeted medicines that block enzymes passing signals inside the cell (tyrosine kinases). They are the main treatment in CML and Ph-positive ALL.

Last updated: ~1 min read
White tablets in blister packs on a peach background
Figure 1.TKIs are tablets taken every day

01Short answer

TKIs switch off the “always on” signal of the BCR::ABL1 protein. There are several generations of TKI; your doctor chooses based on the disease, side effects, other illnesses and resistance mutations. They are usually taken by mouth, regularly. Interactions with food, other medicines and herbal products are possible, so tell your doctor about everything. There are also kinase inhibitors against other targets, such as FLT3.

02Simple explanation

Blocks an enzyme.

Targeted.

Taken regularly.

Interactions.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: a tyrosine kinase inhibitor is a medicine that blocks signals for cell growth.

The NCI Dictionary explains cancer terms in plain language; check the exact meaning for your situation with your doctor.

04What happens in the body?

Side effects

Swelling, rash, muscle aches and blood count changes, depending on the medicine.

A daily box
Figure 2.A daily box — TKI: tyrosine kinase inhibitor

Rules

Do not change the dose yourself.

A quietening signal
Figure 3.A quietening signal.

Where you will see this word

In test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.

Ask your doctor

The general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

05From an unfamiliar word to a clear answer: four steps

Write it down, look it up, prepare a question, ask.

Write it down — From a result or a conversation.1Write it downFrom a result or a conversation.
Look it up — Learn the plain meaning.2Look it upLearn the plain meaning.
Prepare a question — What does this mean for me?3Prepare a questionWhat does this mean for me?
Ask — Your doctor gives the personal explanation.4AskYour doctor gives the personal explanation.
UnderstandingResults feel less frightening.
ConversationA shared language with your doctor.
SafetyNot drawing conclusions alone.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Side effectsSwelling, rash, muscle aches and blood count changes, depending on the medicine.
RulesDo not change the dose yourself.
Where you will see this wordIn test results, discharge letters and conversations with your doctor. Write the word down and ask what it means.
Ask your doctorThe general meaning and the meaning of your own result can differ. The most important question is “What does this mean for me?”

07Key terms

Kinase
An enzyme that passes on signals.
Resistance
A medicine becoming less effective.
Term
A word with a precise medical meaning.
Reference range
The range a laboratory considers normal.

08Key points

  • Learn.
  • Ask your doctor.
  • Write it down.
  • Write the word down.
  • Ask what it means.

09Frequently asked questions

What if I miss a dose?

Check with your doctor or pharmacist; do not take a double dose.

Will I take it for life?

Some people can try stopping, but only with their doctor.

This word is in my results: should I worry?

The word itself does not mean a serious or mild condition; get the explanation from your doctor.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. What if I miss a dose?

  2. Will I take it for life?

  3. This word is in my results: should I worry?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: tyrosine kinase inhibitor
  2. National Cancer Institute. Targeted Therapy to Treat Cancer
  3. National Cancer Institute. Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  4. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
  5. National Cancer Institute. Leukemia
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: stem cell transplant
  7. American Cancer Society. Low Blood Counts
  8. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: biopsy
  9. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: chromosome
  10. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: karyotyping
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
Last updated: ← Back to the list

Open the interactive site →