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Research and new methods

Targeting FLT3: taking the foot off the accelerator

FLT3 is a receptor that controls cell growth. In roughly one in three cases of AML, FLT3 is mutated and stays switched on, making leukaemia cells multiply quickly.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A receptor stuck on
Figure 1.A receptor stuck on.

01Short answer

FLT3 is tested quickly at diagnosis, because the result can change the first treatment. FLT3 inhibitors are added to chemotherapy; some are used alone at relapse or for resistant disease, and some are being studied as maintenance after a transplant. There are two main types of mutation (ITD and TKD), and medicines act on them differently. Side effects can involve heart rhythm, the liver and blood counts, which are checked regularly.

02Simple explanation

Common in AML.

A rapid test.

Added to chemotherapy.

Monitoring.

03Scientific explanation

NCI: in AML, treatment can be chosen according to gene changes such as FLT3, and FLT3 inhibitors are part of targeted therapy.

NCI: new treatments are tested step by step, from the laboratory to clinical trials; only those proven safe and beneficial become standard care.

04What happens in the body?

ITD

Internal tandem duplication in FLT3.

An inhibitor
Figure 2.An inhibitor — Targeting FLT3: taking the foot off the accelerator

TKD

A point mutation in the tyrosine kinase domain.

A PCR machine in a genetics laboratory, used for fast genetic tests
Figure 3.A rapid genetic test

How to read the news

Research news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.

Talk to your doctor

Show your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

05From research news to a conversation: four steps

Read, check, ask, decide together.

Read — From a trusted source.1ReadFrom a trusted source.
Check — Phase, participants, result.2CheckPhase, participants, result.
Ask — Show your doctor.3AskShow your doctor.
Decide — Together, without rushing.4DecideTogether, without rushing.
SourceA trusted site.
DoctorA personal explanation.
SafetyNot changing treatment yourself.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
ITDInternal tandem duplication in FLT3.
TKDA point mutation in the tyrosine kinase domain.
How to read the newsResearch news brings hope, but not every advance suits everyone. Look at who it was tested in, at what phase and in how many people.
Talk to your doctorShow your doctor what you have read; they will explain how it relates to your diagnosis and treatment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

07Key terms

FLT3
A receptor that controls cell growth.
Inhibitor
A medicine that blocks a protein.
Clinical trial
Testing a new treatment with volunteers.
Evidence
A result confirmed by reliable research.

08Key points

  • Test.
  • Combine.
  • Monitor.
  • Check the source.
  • Talk to your doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Is an FLT3 mutation a bad outlook?

It used to be considered worse; targeted medicines have improved results.

Why do they do an ECG?

Some FLT3 inhibitors can affect heart rhythm.

Is this advance right for me?

Only your treating doctor can say, based on your diagnosis, stage and condition.

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 an FLT3 mutation a bad outlook?

  2. Why do they do an ECG?

  3. Is this advance right for me?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute. Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  2. National Cancer Institute. What Are Clinical Trials?
  3. National Cancer Institute. Phases of Clinical Trials
  4. National Cancer Institute. Using Trusted Resources
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). The Genetics of Cancer
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Biomarker Testing for Cancer Treatment
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: graft-versus-host disease
  8. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: tyrosine kinase inhibitor
  9. NMDP (Be The Match). About transplant
  10. National Cancer Institute. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: cytokine release syndrome
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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