Blinatumomab: A New Treatment for Adults With Relapsed Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia.

BACKGROUND Patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) often experience relapse of their disease following standard treatment. Blinatumomab (Blincyto®) is a newly approved option for inducing remission in individuals with relapsed or refractory Philadelphia chromosome-negative B-cell ALL. OBJECTIVES This article provides an overview of blinatumomab, its benefits demonstrated in clinical trials, adverse effects, administration details, and the role of the oncology nurse in caring for and educating patients who receive blinatumomab. METHODS This article summarizes the results of two phase II studies on blinatumomab and provides practice implications for nurses caring for patients receiving this therapy. FINDINGS Attentive symptom monitoring and management are crucial. Individuals who achieve remission from blinatumomab can then be considered for stem cell transplantation and a chance for cure.