Dr. Bradley on Evolving Therapeutic Strategies in MPNs

Terrence J. Bradley, MD, assistant professor, Department of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Health System, discusses the evolution of therapeutic strategies in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs).

Interferon is used for a variety of malignancies, says Bradley; this is an injectable therapy that is effective, but not well tolerated. Patients with MPNs who receive interferon treatment often experience viral, flu-like symptoms, as well as depression, fever, and joint aches. Due to these symptoms, most patients cannot stay on that type of therapy for a prolonged period of time, adds Bradley.

The field of MPNs is going to shift to use of more oral and selective agents. More epigenetic targeted therapies will emerge in the future, predicts Bradley. Drugs, such as interferon, have already become an afterthought, according to Bradley; these agents are mainly used in patients who do not have any other options available or those who are pregnant because that is the only known safe therapy option. The field is going to see many new oral, active, selective, and safe agents forthcoming, concludes Bradley.