Targeted therapy for acute lymphocytic leukemia

In recent years, new drugs that target certain parts of cancer cells have been developed. These targeted therapies work differently than standard chemotherapy (chemo) drugs. They often have less severe side effects.

Some of these drugs can be useful if the acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) cells have certain gene changes. Some studies have shown they may help more patients get the ALL under control (bring about a remission) after treatment and may help keep the leukemia from coming back.

A common side effect of these drugs is swelling around the eyes or in the hands or feet. Other possible side effects include diarrhea, nausea, muscle pain, extreme tiredness (fatigue), and skin rashes, as well as lower red blood cell and platelet counts at the start of treatment.