Leukemia in the elderly

J. Cortes, H. Kantarjian

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

LEUKEMIA, in its different varieties, affects approximately 30 to 70 in 100,000 adults aged 65 and older. However, patients with acute leukemia are frequently excluded from clinical trials based only on their age. Although age is a poor prognostic factor, ample evidence demonstrates that treatment outcome can improve with adequate specific treatment and supportive care. The focus then should be on improving therapies for the elderly on the basis of differences in both the host and the disease compared to younger patients. Chronic leukemias are more frequently treated adequately in the elderly, probably as a consequence of better tolerated and more specific therapies. Therefore, as we identify more disease-specific therapies, elderly patients will benefit from appropriate disease management, while the frequently fatal side effects of chemotherapy in this population will be reduced.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)203-211
Number of pages9
JournalCancer Bulletin
Volume47
Issue number3
StatePublished - Jan 1 1995
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cancer Research

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