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Treatment and the treatment process

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are tablets that switch off a growth signal stuck "on"; they transformed CML treatment.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A signal switch — Tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Figure 1.A signal switch — Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

01Short answer

In CML and Ph+ ALL a fused gene, BCR::ABL1, makes an enzyme that is always active. A TKI blocks it. The effect is tracked with PCR tests measuring BCR::ABL1 in the blood. For some people, after a long and deep response, a supervised attempt to stop treatment may be discussed.

02Simple explanation

Topic. tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.

Write down. Your questions.

Overview. The article “Targeted therapy”.

03Scientific explanation

Molecular response: the fall in BCR::ABL1 on PCR.

Resistance: if a new mutation appears, another TKI may be chosen.

04What happens in the body?

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

In CML and Ph+ ALL a fused gene, BCR::ABL1, makes an enzyme that is always active. A TKI blocks it. The effect is tracked with PCR tests measuring BCR::ABL1 in the blood. For some people, after a long and deep response, a supervised attempt to stop treatment may be discussed.

In more detail

Molecular response: the fall in BCR::ABL1 on PCR. Resistance: if a new mutation appears, another TKI may be chosen.

The BCR::ABL1 fusion.
Figure 2.The BCR::ABL1 fusion.

The overview

This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Targeted therapy”.

A PCR curve — Tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Figure 3.A PCR curve — Tyrosine kinase inhibitors

05Tyrosine kinase inhibitors: the steps

Four steps.

Start — Tablets.1StartTablets.
PCR — Regularly.2PCRRegularly.
Adjust — If needed.3AdjustIf needed.
Long term — Follow-up.4Long termFollow-up.

06Living with a TKI

TopicWhat mattersWho to ask
TimingSome with food, some on an empty stomachPharmacist
InteractionsStomach remedies, herbsHaematologist
Side effectsSwelling, rash, muscle achesYour team

07Key terms

TKI
Tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
PCR
A test measuring the amount of a gene.

08Key points

  • Everyone’s plan is individual.
  • Write down and bring your questions.
  • Report new symptoms early.
  • Do not change medicines yourself.
  • For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
  • Overview: “Targeted therapy”.

09Frequently asked questions

Is a TKI for life?

Often for a long time; stopping only under medical supervision.

Is this the same for everyone?

No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.

Where is the overview?

In the article “Targeted therapy”.

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. Is a TKI for life?

  2. Is this the same for everyone?

  3. Where is the overview?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Targeted Therapy to Treat Cancer
  2. MedlinePlus. Leukemia
  3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Drug Interactions: What You Should Know
  4. NHS. Shingles
  5. MedlinePlus. Posaconazole
  6. MedlinePlus. Voriconazole
  7. NHS. Aspergillosis
  8. Macmillan Cancer Support. Nausea and vomiting
  9. Cancer Research UK. Cancer and sickness (nausea)
  10. MedlinePlus. Ondansetron
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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