The use of imatinib mesylate has no adverse effects on the heart function. Results of a pilot study in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia

Abstract To investigate cardiac effects of imatinib at an extended follow-up (median 12.4 months), 12 chronic myeloid leukemia patients underwent cardiac screening. No significant changes on the frequency of cardiovascular signs and symptoms, electrocardiographic abnormalities, echocardiographic measurements and BNP levels were observed. Median ejection fraction was 67% at baseline versus 68% at follow-up (median intra-patient change 0.5%). Median BNP levels were 8.3 versus 7.3 pg/mL (median intra-patient change 0.2 pg/mL). Troponin I measures were below the lower limit of detection, whereas strain measures were similar to healthy control. This pilot study suggests that it is probably safe to perform cardiac monitoring on an annual basis.