Incorporation of Novel therapies for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia: a perspective

Abstract

Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of diseases that poses an array of therapeutic challenges. For decades two chemotherapeutic agents, cytarabine and daunorubicin, remained the backbone of AML therapy protocols. However, since 2017 nine novel therapies have been approved for the management of AML. With the rapid expansion of therapeutic options, hematologists must adapt their practice to optimize the benefits of these novel therapy options and minimize treatment toxicity. Here, we discuss the novel therapies that have changed the standard of care in management of patients with AML. We summarize the pivotal clinical trials that lead to the approval of these agents, and ongoing trials evaluating additional potential indications. We discuss several promising therapy candidates and their corresponding clinical trials. We discuss therapeutic strategies to incorporate these therapies into practice and pose unanswered questions that have arisen along with the expansion of treatment options.