Oncology Brothers: Practice-Changing Cancer Discussions Treating and Managing Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) in 2025: Dr. Jorge Cortes
Oct 13, 2025
Dr. Jorge Cortes, a leading hematologist-oncologist from the Georgia Cancer Center, shares his expertise on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) management. He emphasizes the critical role of initial workups and patient-centered decision-making in treatment planning. Cortes discusses the latest tyrosine kinase inhibitors like Asiminib and Ponatinib, tailoring therapies to patient goals, and the importance of monitoring response. He also explores managing treatment-related toxicities and when to consider transplantation for advanced CML, revealing vital insights for both professionals and patients.
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Get A Baseline Bone Marrow
- Do obtain a baseline bone marrow biopsy with cytogenetics and FISH at diagnosis of suspected CML.
- This establishes fibrosis, additional chromosomal abnormalities, and confirms the Philadelphia chromosome for accurate staging and later comparisons.
Match TKI To Patient Goals
- Do use shared decision-making to choose a frontline TKI based on patient goals and comorbidities.
- Discuss trade-offs: deeper/faster responses with newer TKIs versus lower cardiovascular risk and longer follow-up with imatinib.
Use Cytogenetics Plus PCR For Monitoring
- Do perform both cytogenetics and PCR (and FISH if needed) at diagnosis to ensure the transcript is detectable and measurable.
- Follow response with PCR every three months in year one, then every six months after MMR is achieved.