Article Details - Overview
New Therapeutic Options for Challenging Hematologic Diseases
Release Date: October 17, 2008
Expiration Date: October 17, 2009
Publication Overview
Author
PER Editorial Staff
Overview and Purpose
Many advances have been made for patients with hematologic disorders, including myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), but clinical challenges remain. Prognostic systems are helpful in making treatment decisions for patients with MDS; currently, the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) and the World Health Organization Prognostic Scoring System (WPSS) are utilized, but key differences that might limit applicability exist between the 2 systems. Until recently, there were no approved therapies for patients with MDS; however, a number of options, including DNA hypomethylating agents and immunomodulatory agents, have been developed that extend survival of patients with this disease. Therapeutic advances for patients with MDS might also translate to patients with AML, including those aged ≥ 60 years. Therapeutic options for benign hematologic disorders are also expanding, and the availability of a biologic therapy for patients with PNH might have a favorable effect on the natural history of that disease.
The purpose of this activity is to apprise physicians of current and novel treatment options for patients with MDS, AML, and PNH.
Target Audience
This activity is intended for medical oncologists and hematologists involved in the care of patients with hematologic malignancies. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Summarize the applicability of and the key differences between the IPSS and the WPSS for patients with MDS
- Evaluate the safety and efficacy of immunomodulatory agents and DNA hypomethylating agents in MDS, particularly in higher-risk disease
- Evaluate the efficacy of treatment options for patients aged ≥ 60 years with AML
- Appraise clinical trials evaluating targeted therapy for the treatment of PNH
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
- CME credit will be granted for only 1 form of participation, either online or via the printed publication.
You will be asked to login
or create an account.