Optimizing Hypomethylating Therapy in Myelodysplastic Syndromes
This program focuses on optimizing the use of oral hypomethylating agents (HMAs) in myeloid malignancies, primarily high-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). A multidisciplinary panel of hematologists, transplant specialists, and an oncology nurse practitioner discusses real-world cases involving TP53-mutated MDS and proliferative CMML, both complicated by cytopenias, comorbidities, logistical challenges, and patient preferences. Panelists review evidence supporting oral decitabine/cedazuridine as a practical and clinically effective therapy comparable to intravenous HMAs. They also discuss transplant candidacy, timing, and the emerging role of combination therapies such as venetoclax with oral HMAs. Across the program, speakers emphasize individualized patient-centered care, balancing disease control with quality of life, treatment burden, telemedicine integration, and realistic expectations. The experts conclude that oral HMA therapy will lead to broader community-based treatment, greater patient autonomy, and future expansion of combination regimens and clinical trials.

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