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Imatinib mesylate in chronic myelogenous leukemia: a Congolese experience


L.O. Ngolet
I Kocko
F.O. Galibaatipo Tsiba
J.D. Guelongo Okouango Ova
A Elira Dokekias

Abstract

Background: Chronic myeloid leukemia is a clonal myeloproliferative disorder caused by reciprocal translocation t(9;22) that induces tyrosin kinase protein. Imatinib is a selective inhibitor of this protein.

Objectives: To assess responses to imatinib and outcome of Congolese patients with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia.

Design: retrospective study.

Settings: Clinical Haematology unit of Teaching Hospital in Brazzaville, Congo

Subjects: Newly diagnosed patients with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia treated with imatinib.

Results: A total of 25 males and 14 females with a mean age of 36 years at time of the diagnosis were enrolled in the study. The mean duration of the illness was 11.4 months. Imatinib induced complete hematologic response at 3 months in 100%. Major cytogenetic response was noticed in 87.18%. After a median follow up of 12 months, chronic myeloid leukemia had not progressed to the accelerated or blastic phase in an estimated 91.8% of patients and 86.6% were alive.

Conclusion: Imatinib is effective in newly chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia patient even though cytogenetic response rate are lower in Africa than western countries populations


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eISSN: 0012-835X