‘The HemOnc Pulse Live:’ Transforming ALL Treatment Pathways

In this episode, leading experts from discuss the rapidly evolving treatment landscape for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and T-cell ALL, focusing on the shift toward chemotherapy-free regimens and the integration of novel immunotherapies. The conversation opens with the growing role of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) paired with blinatumomab in Philadelphia-positive ALL, exploring whether this combination is becoming the standard of care across age and fitness levels.

Moderator:

• Naval G. Daver, MD, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Panelists:

• Nicholas J. Short, MD, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
• Guru Murthy, MD, MS, Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin
• Sanam Loghavi, MD, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

The discussion then moves into the exciting, yet complex, world of CAR T-cell therapies, particularly CD7-directed CARs, and how they may reshape treatment duration and placement in therapy. The panel examines early trial data, possible benefits in moving CAR T into earlier disease stages, and the clinical challenges of T-cell depletion and infection risks.

Venetoclax also comes under the spotlight, especially in the context of T-cell ALL, with experts debating trial design limitations and the need to focus studies specifically on T-cell subtypes rather than broader, more heterogeneous relapsed/refractory ALL populations.

Throughout the dialogue, the speakers balance optimism for these groundbreaking approaches with the caution needed to manage immune-related complications and to determine the best sequencing in patient care. This episode offers deep clinical insight for oncologists, hematologists, and researchers following the frontlines of innovation in blood cancer treatment.