Childhood acute myeloid leukemia: an Indian perspective

Cure rates of childhood malignancies are inferior in India as compared to developed nations. There is paucity of data addressing outcome of childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) from India. Hence, this study was designed to assess the outcome of childhood AML in India over the last 2 decades, identify shortcomings and suggest remedial measures. A comprehensive search to identify studies addressing outcome of childhood AML from India was carried out. International Society of Paediatric Oncology annual meeting abstracts were searched to identify unpublished data. Clinicodemographic and outcome data were extracted from these abstracts. Outcomes of <500 patients have been published to date, with predominantly small single-center series from 5 cities. Several AML protocols with modifications to suit the logistics in India have been used. Administration of chemotherapy (standard as well as oral and outpatient based) with manageable toxicity has been deemed feasible. Survival outcomes are modest (23% to 53.8%) except for AML M3 (over 80%), with high early-death rates, relapse, along with abandonment. Few series have identified prognostic parameters and disease burden at diagnosis, and used cytogenetics (for risk stratification) or bone marrow transplant (BMT). There is a need for assessment of risk factors in Indian patients; administration of adequate and appropriate therapy, both upfront and after relapse; improvement in supportive care; and national data management infrastructure with updating/monitoring of registries along with better financial and social support initiatives. These multimodal and additive remedial measures could significantly improve outcome of childhood AML in India by reducing mortality, relapse, and abandonment.