How is blinatumomab used to treat ALL today, and how might it be used in the future?

Know ALL was pleased to speak to Mark Litzow, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, US. We asked, How is blinatumomab used to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)today, and how might it be used in the future?

In this interview, Dr Litzow explains how blinatumomab, a treatment for ALL, helps patients by instructing the body’s own immune system to find and destroy leukemia cells. This form of treatment is designed to kill cancer cells more precisely than traditional chemotherapy, reducing harm to healthy cells. Blinatumomab was first used for patients whose leukemia had returned after treatment (relapse) and later for those with tiny amounts of remaining leukemia cells detectable only with sensitive tests. Recent research shows that even patients with no detectable disease can benefit from blinatumomab to lower the risk of relapse.

Dr Litzow also covers common side effects, such as flu-like symptoms and effects on the nervous system, and how these are managed. Dr Litzow highlights ongoing research into easier methods of delivering the treatment, like under-the-skin injections, and how combining blinatumomab with other targeted therapies could reduce the need for chemotherapy in some patients.