Long-term outcome of childhood acute myeloid leukemia: A 10-year retrospective cohort study

Tran Kiem Hao1, Chau Van Ha1, Nguyen Huu Son1

  • 1Pediatric Center, Hue Central Hospital, Hue, Vietnam.

Pediatric Reports
|April 21, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Childhood acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treatment improved survival rates and reduced abandonment at Hue Central Hospital. However, overall and event-free survival remain low, highlighting challenges in low-income countries.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology Oncology
  • Clinical Research
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a critical pediatric malignancy.
  • Historically, high abandonment rates and zero survival were observed at Hue Central Hospital.
  • Significant improvements in social support strategies were implemented.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the long-term outcomes of childhood AML patients treated between 2010-2019.
  • To assess the impact of modified treatment regimens and social support interventions.
  • To identify challenges in pediatric AML management in resource-limited settings.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 98 pediatric AML cases admitted from January 2010 to December 2019.
  • Diagnosis confirmed via FAB criteria, cytochemistry, and immunophenotyping.
  • Treatment utilized a modified AML 7-3 Regimen with comprehensive social support.

Main Results:

  • An overall complete remission rate of 82.6% was achieved post-induction.
  • Relapse occurred in 46.9% of patients; 3-year overall survival was 23.2%, and event-free survival was 20.2%.
  • Abandonment rates decreased significantly to 4.1% due to holistic support strategies.

Conclusions:

  • While remission rates are high, sustained survival for childhood AML remains a challenge in low- and middle-income countries.
  • Holistic support strategies effectively reduced patient abandonment.
  • Further improvements in treatment quality are necessary for better long-term outcomes in pediatric AML.