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Updated: Jun 10, 2026

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Flow Cytometry to Estimate Leukemia Stem Cells in Primary Acute Myeloid Leukemia and in Patient-derived-xenografts, at Diagnosis and Follow Up
Published on: March 26, 2018
[Hemiparesis in acute lymphoblastic leukemia].
M Karremann1, G von Komorowski, E Neumaier-Probst
1Abteilung für Pädiatrische Onkologie und Hämatologie, Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Deutschland. michael.karremann@umm.de
Der Radiologe
|July 24, 2010
Summary
Methotrexate-induced acute encephalopathy can cause stroke-like symptoms in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Cerebral MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging aids diagnosis, indicating a favorable prognosis for affected individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) treatment often involves methotrexate.
- Methotrexate can cause neurological complications, including acute encephalopathy.
- This condition presents with stroke-like symptoms, such as hemiparesis.
Observation:
- A case study of an adolescent female with ALL and hemiparesis is presented.
- The patient's symptoms were consistent with methotrexate-induced acute encephalopathy.
- This neurological complication can occur in both pediatric and adult patients.
Findings:
- Methotrexate-induced acute encephalopathy is a rare but recognized complication.
- It can arise from both intrathecal and high-dose intravenous methotrexate administration.
- Cerebral MRI, particularly diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), is crucial for diagnosis.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis via MRI allows for timely patient management.
- Understanding this complication can improve treatment protocols for ALL patients.
- Early diagnosis is associated with a favorable prognosis, enabling informed patient counseling.

