Can CML be cured completely?
The answer to this question is both yes and no. Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a type of cancer caused by a genetic mutation that affects the white blood cells. It is a chronic condition that will require ongoing treatment. However, recent advances in medical science have made it possible to achieve a complete remission, and in some cases, a cure.
Recent breakthroughs in targeted drug therapies, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have made it possible to control and manage the condition much more effectively than in the past. These drugs work by targeting the genetic mutation that causes CML, stopping it from replicating and allowing the body’s immune system to fight off the cancer cells.
In many cases, a combination of TKIs and other treatments, such as chemotherapy and stem cell transplants, can help to achieve a complete remission. In some cases, this remission can be sustained for years or even decades, effectively curing the patient.
However, in some cases, CML can become resistant to drug treatment, and the patient may experience a relapse. In such cases, more aggressive treatments may be needed to achieve a complete remission. There is also the risk that the cancer will never go away completely, and a patient may need to remain on treatment for the rest of their life.
In conclusion, while it is possible to achieve a complete remission and in some cases, a cure, for CML, it is not always a guarantee. For some patients, CML can become resistant to drug treatment, and more aggressive treatments may be needed to control the condition.