So I am Romain Guiez, I'm a hematologist in France in Clermont-Ferrand and at Ash we have presented the results of a study that is called STAIR. And actually we know that we use molecules in chronic lymphocytic leukemia which are inhibitors of the Bruton Tyrosine kinase. These are oral pills and these have been transformative for treating patients. However, this treatment is given as a continuous treatment over time, unlimited and in elderly patients it can be detrimental. For such reason we have conducted this STAIR trial which has evaluated whether we can discontinue one of these compounds that is called acala-brutinib and whether we can discontinue it after a period of 18 months. So we have found that stopping acala-brutinib clearly reduced the progression free survival one year after since this PFS at one year was 53.1%. That being said, we can successfully restart the treatment to date but we need more follow-up for this study to have this applicable in the routine practice. And in addition we have seen that there is differences among patients. Not only patients having this mutated adGHV status which is molecular biology status are more prompt to not relapse after the treatment discontinuation. We do not see any difference in terms of oral survival. So to conclude, stopping acala-brutinib is not something to do in clinical practice. Even if it's a recurrent question we also have for more patients, could we stop this treatment or should I continue this treatment in an unlimited approach? And further analysis are also required to determine whether we need to still research in this area in a particular subgroup of patients where it could be still possible. If our videos have helped you in any way and you are able to, please consider making a donation to help us continue this important work. Your gift will go three times as far when we reach $500,000 by the end of the year. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference and we're deeply grateful for your support.
HealthTree • December 24, 2025