Introducing Diagnostic Testing for Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in a Public Hospital Setting in Western Kenya

Abstract

—Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myelo proliferative disorder characterized by proliferation of the granulocytic cell line. The incidence of CML in Kenya is estimated at near 2000 cases annually. The disorder is associated with a poor prognosis without treatment. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are approved for treatment in adults and children with confirmed disease. Diagnostic testing for CML in the public setting in Kenya is limited and not covered by the Kenyan National Health Insurance Fund.