High-dose cytarabine induction for acute myeloid leukemia.

In a recent article, Bishop et al’ state that high-dose cytarabine has not previously been used as induction for untreated acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In fact, high-dose cytarabine has been used by itself: with am~acrine,~ and with daunorubicin4 in this role. Additionally, doses of cytarabine significantly above those considered standard had previously been used by other groups for initial induction’ with daunorubicin. The report by Bishop et all builds on these previous experiences and clearly supports a role for high-dose cytarabine as initial therapy, as we and other groups have reported.