Episode 124: AML Series, Pt 10 - Allogeneic transplant for AML
Dec 11, 2024
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Dr. Amar Kelkar, a hematology and oncology expert from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, delves into allogeneic transplant options for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). He discusses the various conditioning regimens and how to choose the best one for patients. The conversation also highlights the critical role of measurable residual disease testing and maintenance therapies. Kelkar sheds light on graft-versus-host disease and recent advancements in haploidentical transplants, addressing racial disparities in transplant outcomes for better equity.
Tailoring conditioning regimens for allogeneic transplant in AML patients is essential based on their age and disease characteristics to optimize outcomes.
Racial disparities in transplant outcomes highlight the need for improved donor diversity and equitable access to treatment facilities and clinical trials.
Deep dives
Understanding Conditioning Regimens in Transplantation
Myeloablative and reduced-intensity conditioning regimens are crucial in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Myeloablative regimens, such as fludarabine and busulfan, involve higher doses aimed at completely ablating bone marrow before transplant. In contrast, reduced-intensity conditioning regimens use lower doses, making them suitable for older patients who may not tolerate aggressive treatment. Recent studies have shown varying outcomes between the two approaches, emphasizing the need to tailor the conditioning strategy based on patient age and specific disease characteristics.
The Role of MRD Testing in Transplant Decision-Making
Measurable Residual Disease (MRD) testing plays a critical role in evaluating patients before and after transplantation. For acute myeloid leukemia, MRD positivity indicates a higher relapse risk and may necessitate transplant to improve outcomes. Various methods, including flow cytometry and PCR testing for specific mutations like FLT3, are employed to assess MRD levels and guide treatment decisions. This evolving area is essential for personalizing patient care and determining the appropriate intensity of conditioning regimens.
Addressing Racial Disparities in Transplant Outcomes
Racial and ethnic disparities significantly impact outcomes in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, with research indicating worse results for non-Hispanic Black patients. Contributing factors include socioeconomic barriers, limited access to transplant facilities, and a lack of diverse donor registries. Efforts to reduce these disparities focus on enhancing donor databases and addressing implicit biases in treatment decisions. Additionally, promoting clinical trial diversity is crucial for identifying effective interventions and ensuring equitable access to transplant services.
In today’s episode, we welcome back Dr. Amar Kelkar for part 2 of our two-part discussion on allogeneic transplant. In this episode, we build on our prior discussion regarding transplant, this time focusing on transplant for the treatment of AML.
Episode contents:
- What are the different conditioning regimens available?
- How do we decide which regimen is optimal for our patients?
- What is the role of MRD testing?
- What is the role of maintenance therapy post-transplant?
- What are treatment options for GVHD?
- A discussion on racial disparities in transplant