Advances in therapy of adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

The landscape of adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is dramatically changing. With very promising results seen with novel immunotherapeutics in the setting of relapsed and refractory disease, the prospect of using these agents in first-line therapy has prompted the development of multiple clinical trials addressing this question. This review seeks to outline and expand the current standard of care, as well as new advances, in the treatment of adult patients with ALL and address future areas of research. We expect the frontline integration of immuno-oncology agents such as bispecific T-cell engagers, antibody-drug conjugates, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells may maintain or improve outcomes in adults while also minimizing toxicity. Treatment of ALL will continue to evolve as we focus on personalized, patient-centered approaches.