Volasertib for AML: clinical use and patient consideration

Abstract

Zhonglin Hao,1 Vamsi Kota2 1Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA, USA; 2Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA Abstract: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a disease diagnosed mostly in patients >65 years of age. Despite its heterogeneous nature, the different types of AMLs are still managed by standard induction chemotherapy for those who can tolerate it in the beginning. For the elderly and infirm patients, however, this approach leads to unacceptably high induction mortality rate. This article reviews past and current efforts searching for low-intensiveness treatments for the elderly and infirm patients who cannot tolerate the standard induction regimen. Volasertib, currently in Phase III clinical trials in combination with cytarabine, is reviewed as a promising agent for this patient population with AML, from the viewpoints of potential compliance and efficacy. Keywords: volasertib, acute myeloid leukemia, management, induction