Imatinib
Toxicology Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
Imatinib is now first-line treatment for chronic phase CML. N-Desmethylimatinib (norimatinib) is the principal plasma metabolite of imatinib and accumulates to concentrations of approximately 20 % of those of imatinib during chronic therapy. It may possess pharmacological activity.
Cytogenetic and molecular responses to imatinib have been associated with pre-dose plasma imatinib concentrations of 1 mg/L or more. Treatment failure has been attributed to poor adherence, inadequate dosage or development of a mutation causing imatinib resistance. Thus, monitoring plasma imatinib and norimatinib may help in assessing adherence and in optimising treatment.
Sample Requirements
2mL EDTA whole blood preferred. Serum or plasma can be used if required.
Storage and Transport
Please refrigerate (if possible) if not sending immediately. Send by first class post to:
Toxicology Unit, Clinical Biochemistry
Bessemer Wing
Kings College Hospital
Denmark Hill
London
SE5 9RS
If possible, please COMPLETE (details can be completed electronically) & PRINT the request form below and send as a hard copy (DO NOT SEND ELECTRONICALLY) with the sample. This will ensure all relevant information is available and will aid in processing your test.
PDF Request Form
Download Imatinib Request Form
Turnaround Time
Results are available within 1 working week of receipt in the laboratory.
Price
No charge in SE Thames area.
Price available on application – please contact adrianturner1@nhs.net.
Contacts
Clinical Advice and Interpretation
Prof. Bob Flanagan
T 020 3299 5824
Fax 020 3299 5825
Laboratory
Simon Handley
T 020 3299 5883
Fax 020 3299 5888
References
Picard S, Titier K, Etienne G, Teilhet E, Ducint D, Bernard M, Lassalle R, Marit G, Reiffers J, Begaud B, Moore N, Molimard M, Mahon F. Trough imatinib plasma levels are associated with both cytogenetic and molecular responses to standard-dose imatinib in chronic myeloid leukaemia. Blood 2007; 109: 3496-9.
Widmer N, Decosterd L, Csajka C, Leyvraz S, Duchosal M, Rosselet A, Rochat B, Eap C, Henry H, Biollaz J, Buclin T. Population pharmacokinetics of imatinib and the role of Alpha1-acid glycoprotein. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2006; 62: 97-112.
