Cancer drug shows promise for rare blood disorder

This study tests whether imatinib (Gleevec) can safely reduce high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in people with hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES). About 70 participants with the myeloid form of HES or those who did not respond to steroids will take imatinib daily. The goal is to bring eosinophil counts back to normal and prevent organ damage. The drug may be tapered or stopped if successful, but some patients may need long-term treatment.