Chronic myelogenous leukemia and myeloproliferative disease.

In Section I, Dr. Stephen O'Brien reviews the latest data on the clinical use of imatinib (STI571, Gleevec, Glivec) in CML. His review focuses on the use of imatinib in newly diagnosed chronic phase patients and summarizes cytogenetic and molecular response data, as well as use of the agent at high doses and in combination with other drugs. A brief summary of the prospective international Phase III studies that are currently ongoing is also provided, and the issues of resistance and definition of suboptimal therapeutic response are also covered. Finally, therapeutic decision-making and treatment strategy are considered. In Section II, Dr. Ayalew Tefferi considers the latest developments in the biology and therapy of myeloid metaplasia/myelofibrosis. Dr. Tefferi covers what is currently understood of the biology of the disease and reviews established therapies for the condition as well as novel agents that are being used in clinical trials. The development of optimal management strategies for the disease is considered. In Section III, Dr. Peter Valent reviews the classification of mast cell proliferative disorders and covers the clinical and pathological presentation of this group of neoplasms. He reviews the state-of-the-art regarding the molecular biology of mastocytosis along with diagnostic criteria and novel treatment concepts.