What is the goal of treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)?
The main goal of treatment for all types of leukemia, including CML, is complete remission (ree-MIH-shun). Remission means that there is no longer any sign of the disease. If someone with CML is in remission, blood tests show only healthy blood and bone marrow cells. For people in the chronic phase of CML, the goal of treatment is to destroy all cells that have the Philadelphia chromosome. When this goal is reached, it is called a complete cytogenetic response. Back to TOC What drugs are used to treat CML? Treatment for CML can be complex. No two patients are the same. There are several choices for drug therapy. Doctors can often treat the chronic phase of CML with certain drugs, such as the ones listed below. Hydroxyurea and busulfan These chemotherapy drugs have no effect on the chromosomes, and they do not stop the progression of the disease. However, they have been successful in lowering white blood cell counts, which can help reduce symptoms. They are most often used during the ch
