Childhood ALL and second neoplasms

Second malignancies are a significant concern for survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), in particular patients who have been treated with cranial irradiation. Brain tumors, most commonly meningiomas, are among the most common second neoplasms discovered in these patients. Breast cancer can occur in association with meningioma, but is not thought to be a consequence of treatment for childhood ALL. We describe the molecular genetics and therapy of childhood ALL, the molecular genetics of meningioma, as well as the possible association between meningioma and breast cancer.