Management of chronic myeloid leukemia: A five-year survey with a comparison of oral busulfan and splenic irradiation

Abstract

One hundred and thirteen cases of chronic myeloid leukemia were seen at the Tata Memorial Hospital during the 5-year period 1963–1967. The age distribution showed the largest number in the 30–39 year age group. There were 79 males and 34 females. The median total survival period was 21 months. In 40 dead patients, the average remission following splenic irradiation was 6.5 months, as compared with 41.2 months following administration of oral busulfan. The corresponding figures in 45 patients still undergoing treatment were 7.9 months and 21.6 months, respectively. It was concluded that oral busulfan was superior to splenic irradiation in the ability to maintain remission in chronic myeloid leukemia.