Virtual Conference

March 13, 2021

Needs Statement

We are witnessing a “revolution” in the therapy of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia [AML]. The incorporation of novel oral hypomethylating agents [HMA], combination of HMA plus BCL-2 inhibitor, anti-CD33 monoclonal antibody, liposomal cytarabine/daunorubicin, FLT3 and IDH inhibitors, among others, have brought enthusiasm to those taking care of AML patients. This accelerated approval and availability of more ‘directed” AML therapy signals an end for those days, in which a combination of cytarabine plus anthracycline [7+3] was the only induction alternative. As history develops, the 7+3 “one size fits all model’ is being replaced by exciting development in genomically inspired therapies resulting in improved induction and survival. Still, we face significant challenges, especially for vulnerable elderly AML patients, who retain dismal outcome. In this AML subgroup, adverse chromosomic and genomic abnormalities are frequently observed, which synergize with comorbid conditions and fragility driving excess in mortality.  During our third symposium, we bring together national and international acclaimed leukemia scientists to discuss recent advances in clonal hematopoiesis, low/high risk myelodysplastic syndrome, targeted AML therapy with emphasis in novel HMA plus BCL-2 inhibitor combination, advances in P53 myeloid malignancies therapies. During our 2021 symposium, we incorporate State-of- the-Art Lectures on post induction HMA treatment, mechanisms of FLT3 inhibition resistance and how to manage elderly AML patients. A highly interactive update on HMA plus BCL-2 inhibitor therapy will be followed by a panel discussion on post induction AML maintenance. Additionally, the symposium will provide important novel development in MDS and AML pathogenesis leading to unique opportunity for clinical trial design ideas.

Target Audience

This course is designed for practicing hematologists, oncologists, physician assistants, basic scientists, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, hematology and oncology fellows, residents and students.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of the conference, participants should be able to:

• Describe the mechanisms leading to clonal hematopoiesis progression
• Compare laboratory and genomic factors that predict response to immunosuppressive therapy and thrombopoietin (TPO) mimetic
• Discuss how targeted therapy has improved the outcome of low risk myelodysplastic syndrome
• Predict the response to hypomethylating agent plus venetoclax based on genomic subtype
• Outline recent advances in tumor suppressor gene, TP53, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) therapy

Educational Methods

Lecture, Case Study, Panel Discussion, and Demonstration

Activity Evaluation

Evaluation by questionnaire will address program content, presentation, and possible bias.