Imatinib + Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new combination of treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with a genetic change known as the Philadelphia chromosome. Researchers aim to determine if a different chemotherapy regimen combined with imatinib mesylate (a type of targeted therapy) can match the effectiveness of a stronger, more intense regimen but with fewer side effects. The trial also examines the effectiveness of this combination in ABL-class fusion positive ALL, a similar type of ALL. It seeks participants newly diagnosed with Philadelphia chromosome positive or ABL-class fusion positive ALL who have already begun initial treatment. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to potentially groundbreaking treatment advancements.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team to get specific guidance.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Previous studies have shown that imatinib mesylate has been used safely in patients with Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL). The FDA has approved it for this condition, indicating a good safety record. However, side effects can occur, especially when combined with chemotherapy.
Research shows that combining imatinib with strong chemotherapy can improve patient outcomes but also leads to more side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
This trial tests whether a different, possibly less intense chemotherapy, when combined with imatinib, might cause fewer side effects while remaining effective. Safety is a major focus in all trials, and researchers closely monitor for any adverse events.
Prospective participants should discuss with the research team what side effects to expect and how they will be managed.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Unlike the standard treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, which typically involve a range of chemotherapy drugs, this new approach combines imatinib mesylate with specific chemotherapy protocols. Imatinib mesylate is unique because it targets the BCR-ABL protein, a culprit in certain leukemias, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Researchers are excited because this targeted action could lead to better outcomes and fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy alone. Additionally, combining imatinib with multiple chemotherapy regimens (EsPhALL and COG/BFM) and the potential for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) offers a customized treatment pathway that could improve survival rates for patients with this aggressive cancer.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for acute lymphoblastic leukemia?
Research has shown that imatinib mesylate, when combined with chemotherapy, effectively treats Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL). In this trial, participants will receive imatinib mesylate with various chemotherapy regimens. One study using a specific chemotherapy plan called hyperCVAD found that all patients achieved complete remission, with no signs of cancer detected. Another study reported that 90% of patients reached complete remission when imatinib was paired with strong chemotherapy. These findings suggest that combining imatinib with chemotherapy significantly improves outcomes for individuals with Ph+ ALL. Additionally, imatinib is approved for treating several blood disorders, supporting its ability to target specific cancer cells effectively.25678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Prof. Andrea Biondi
Principal Investigator
EsPhALL Network/ BFM Study Group
Lewis B Silverman
Principal Investigator
Children's Oncology Group
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients up to 21 years old with newly diagnosed Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or similar ABL-class fusion positive ALL. They must have started standard induction therapy but not received more than 14 days of it, and their organ functions should meet specific criteria. Excluded are those with chronic myelogenous leukemia, previous cancer treated with cytotoxic chemotherapy, uncontrolled infections or illnesses requiring intensive support, Down syndrome, pregnancy or breastfeeding women, and those unwilling to use contraception.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Induction IA Part 1
Patients receive induction IA according to standard of care on days 1-14
Induction IA Part 2
Patients receive imatinib mesylate and other chemotherapy agents
Induction IB
Patients receive imatinib mesylate and a combination of chemotherapy agents
Post-Induction Therapy
Patients receive various consolidation and intensification therapies based on risk classification
Maintenance
Patients receive imatinib mesylate and other maintenance chemotherapy agents
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
- Calaspargase Pegol
- Cyclophosphamide
- Daunorubicin Hydrochloride
- Dexamethasone
- Doxorubicin
- Etoposide
- Imatinib Mesylate
- Mercaptopurine
- Methotrexate
- Methylprednisolone
- Pegaspargase
- Prednisolone
- Therapeutic Hydrocortisone
- Thioguanine
- Vincristine Sulfate
Calaspargase Pegol is already approved in United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in pediatric and young adult patients aged one month to 21 years
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Children's Oncology Group
Lead Sponsor
EsPhALL network I-BFM Study Group
Collaborator
EsPhALL Network/ BFM Study Group
Collaborator
EsPhALL
Collaborator
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator