Reversible changes on computed tomography scans of the brain during induction therapy for acute lymphoblastic...

Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have been shown to develop changes on computed tomography (CT) scans of the brain. These changes are seen both during and after therapy. Some of the results have been contradictory. Nine children with ALL were examined by CT of the brain during induction therapy. All children showed normal CT scans on the day of diagnosis. One month later all had dilatation of the ventricles and widened sulci. During the next 9 months the CT scans gradually were normalized. We conclude that such changes in CT scans of the brain are transitory and are caused by the high dose of prednisolone administered during induction therapy.