Repeated PCR in CML during IFN‐α therapy

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Abstract
Abstract:  Repeated PCR analysis was performed on bone marrow and/or peripheral blood samples from 4 CML patients in complete cytogenetic remission during treatment with IFN‐α. Two patients became PCR‐negative. One was negative for the analyses carried out from the 9th to the 30th months, but reverted to PCR positivity 10 months after IFN was reduced from 1.5 × 106 IU/day to 1 × 106 IU and given on alternate days. Although the dose was again raised to 3 × 106 IU/day, 8 months later her peripheral blood cells were still PCR‐positive, but remained persistently Ph'‐negative. Another patient became PCR‐negative at the 42nd month and remained so at the last analysis performed 3 months later. Two patients were persistently PCR‐positive. Cytogenetic relapse was documented in both, in one while still on full therapy. Ph'‐positive metaphases reappeared in the other patient 7 months after discontinuing IFN‐α therapy.