Gilteritinib with chemotherapy for treating newly diagnosed FLT3 positive acute myeloid leukaemia

Gilteritinib with chemotherapy is in development for newly diagnosed FLT3 positive acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). AML is a type of cancer affecting young blood cells in the bone marrow, which is the soft inner part of the bone. In healthy individuals these young blood cells, known as stem cells, develop into red blood cells, platelets, and some types of white blood cell. In AML, some of these stem cells do not develop fully and instead become abnormal leukaemia cells. These can stop the bone marrow from working properly and can also spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms can include looking pale, feeling tired or weak, breathlessness, frequent infections, unusual and frequent bruising or bleeding. The exact cause of AML is unknown, but the risk of developing AML increases with age. Some individuals with AML may have alterations (changes to) FLT3 which encourages cells in the bone marrow to multiply uncontrollably. Patients with AML positive for alterations in FLT3 are more likely to have poorer outcomes than those who do not. Initial treatment for AML depends on whether patients are fit enough to have intensive chemotherapy, or whether lower dosage treatment is recommended. For AML positive for FLT3 alterations, targeted medicines may be given to help kill the leukaemia cells and reduce the risk of the cancer coming back.