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Published on: May 10, 2017
Suspicions regarding the genetic inheritance of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in patients with down syndrome
Emir Behluli1, Nexhibe Nuhii2, Thomas Liehr3
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
Insights
Children with Down syndrome (DS) have a higher risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). DS-ALL patients face increased toxicity, necessitating research into inherited risks and targeted molecular therapies.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Pediatric Oncology
- Hematology
Background:
- Down syndrome (DS), caused by trisomy 21, significantly increases leukemia risk in children.
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer, with DS patients facing unique challenges.
- DS-ALL patients exhibit heightened susceptibility to therapy-related toxicity compared to non-DS counterparts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on inherited predispositions to ALL in the context of Down syndrome.
- To explore potential molecular therapies for DS-ALL.
- To summarize current treatment considerations for DS-ALL.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of inherited predisposition for ALL.
- Analysis of molecular therapy options for DS-ALL.
- Summary of treatment protocols and toxicity in DS-ALL.
Main Results:
- Children with Down syndrome have a markedly increased risk of developing acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
- DS-ALL patients experience greater therapy-related toxicity.
- Inherited factors play a role in ALL development, particularly in DS.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the genetic basis of DS-ALL is crucial for improving outcomes.
- Targeted molecular therapies offer promise for managing DS-ALL.
- Specialized treatment protocols are needed to mitigate toxicity in DS-ALL patients.
Abstract:
Children with Down syndrome (DS) are at markedly increased risk for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). DS is caused by trisomy of chromosome 21 affecting approximately 1 in 732 newborns in the USA. ALL is the most common cancer in children and constitutes approximately 25% of cancer diagnoses among children under the age of 15. Different protocols for treatment and management of paediatric ALL are available; however, DS children with ALL (DS-ALL) have increased risk of therapy-related toxicity compared to those without DS. Herein, we summarize the available literature on inherited predisposition for ALL, and possibilities for molecular therapy and treatment for DS-ALL patients.
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