Height and Body Mass Index Changes in Chinese Children Undergoing Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have a higher risk of height deficit and obesity. Data on Chinese pediatric ALL patients treated on chemotherapy only are limited.

Changes in z scores for height and body mass index (BMI) from the diagnosis to 2 years after the initial of treatment were analyzed in 805 ALL patients diagnosed at Children's Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine.

A significant reduction in height z-scores and increase in BMI z-scores were documented during treatment (p < 0.001), the most pronounced changes observed in the first three months. Catch-up growth was noted after nine months. Children in middle-high-aged group showed the most significant decline in height z-scores after 24 months (p < 0.05). High-risk patients exhibited lower height z-scores at 9 and 12 months (p < 0.01). Children under 9 years or in non-high-risk group showed greater BMI z-scores increase during treatment (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences by gender.

Chemotherapy leads to height deficit and BMI increase in pediatric ALL patients. Height deficit is more pronounced in children aged 8-13 years, BMI increases are more significant in younger children. High-risk patients are more prone to lower height and smaller BMI increases.