Leukemia
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Chronic myeloid leukemia in blast crisis (BC) and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph(+) ALL) are associated with extremely poor outcome. Allogeneic transplantation during BC or active leukemia is most often unsuccessful due to high-rates of both treatment-related complications and relapse. Long-term results are significantly better if a second chronic phase or remission can be achieved prior to transplantation. ⋯ Pre-transplant imatinib seems safe and not associated with excess post-transplant complications. Imatinib may have substantial activity in combination with DLI. Further study of a larger group of patients is required to assess the impact on long-term outcome and the role of post-transplant imatinib in controlling residual disease.