Dr. Mims on Performing Molecular Profiling at Diagnosis in AML

Alice S. Mims, MD, medical oncologist, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center—James, discusses up front molecular profiling in patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Up front molecular testing is recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, explains Mims. The discussion surrounding this topic is largely whether or not to wait for the test results before initiating treatment.

Some patients who have rapid disease progression are unable to wait for results, says Mims. However, other patients who have a relatively low disease burden may benefit from waiting for the results before starting treatment. The results may indicate the patient is a candidate for targeted therapy rather than chemotherapy, concludes Mims.