Evaluation of tyrosine kinase inhibitor discontinuation initiative in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia at princess noorah oncology center

CONTEXT: Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are the standard of care therapy for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The current disadvantages of lifelong treatment include adverse effects and financial burden. AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of treatment-free remission (TFR) in CML patients. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in our oncology center. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Patients ≥18 years old diagnosed with CML, received TKI and had a TFR trial to achieve TFR, with at least 6 months follow-up, and who received TKIs were included. Patients with a previous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were excluded. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with sustainable TFR at 6 months. The secondary outcomes were the proportion of patients with sustainable TFR at 12 months, the rate of regaining a major molecular response (MMR) after relapse, and the cost-saving impact. Descriptive statistics were used for the demographics and outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 250 patients were screened for eligibility, 25 patients were enrolled. The median age was 54 years (interquartile range: 45.5–59), 60% were female. TFR was 92% at 6 months and 72% at 12 months. 100% of the patients regained MMR. The total number of TFR days were 17,024 which resulted in a direct cost saving of SR 7,205,601.9, based on Saudi FDA pricing. CONCLUSIONS: The study indicated that the majority of the CML patients achieved 6 months TFR. This initiative has resulted in a significant cost saving. Future studies should characterize potential candidates for TKI discontinuation.