Arsenic Trioxide as Effective Therapy for Relapsed Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia

Arsenic trioxide was found to be an effective therapy for patients with relapsed acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), particularly after the standard treatment of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) plus anthracycline-based chemotherapy failed in 20%-30% of cases. Clinical trials in the United States confirmed its efficacy and safety, leading to FDA approval in 2000. The injectable formulation, Trisenox®, was indicated for refractory or relapsed APL and was associated with mostly mild side effects. Serious adverse effects like hyperleukocytosis and APL differentiation syndrome could be managed with careful monitoring. Trisenox did not cause hair loss or myelosuppression and had no known cross-resistance with ATRA or other anticancer agents. Oncology nurses were crucial in educating patients about the drug's benefits, side effects, and necessary precautions.