Objective We intended to get good understanding of the current role of imatinib （or glivec） in the treatment of a patient with chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia. Methods We attempted to find the current best evidence of imatinib for treating chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase by searching ACP Journal Club （1991 -Jun, 2005 ）, The Cochrane Library（Issue 2, 2005 ）and MEDLINE（1990 -Jun, 2005 ） and further critically appraised the available evidence. Results Imatinib appeared to be more effective than current standard drag treatments in terms of hematologic and cytogenetic response with better quality of life and fewer side effects. However, there was uncertainty concerning long term outcomes. Given the current evidence together with our clinical experience and considering the patient and his family members＇ values and preference, imatinib （400 mg qd） was administered to him. No obvious adverse effects occurred with 3 months follow-up. Conclusions Imatinib is effective and well tolerated in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase. Further researches on long-term follow-up data from imatinib trials are definitely needed.