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[Concordant monocytic leukemia in twin infants]
Helvetica Paediatrica Acta
|December 1, 1983
Summary
Identical twins were diagnosed with acute monocytic leukemia. Despite chemotherapy, one twin died from bleeding complications, while the other achieved long-term remission, highlighting varied disease outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Hematology
- Genetics
Background:
- Identical twins present a unique model for studying genetic and environmental influences on disease.
- Acute monocytic leukemia (AML-M5) is a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer.
Observation:
- Simultaneous diagnosis of acute monocytic leukemia in 6-month-old identical twin males.
- Conception occurred despite the presence of an intrauterine device (Copper T).
Findings:
- One twin succumbed to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) with pulmonary hemorrhage despite chemotherapy.
- The other twin achieved a long-term remission, indicating differential treatment response.
Implications:
- This case underscores the complex interplay of genetic predisposition and potential environmental factors in pediatric leukemia.
- It highlights the variability in treatment response and prognosis even in genetically identical individuals.
- The occurrence of pregnancy with an intrauterine device warrants further consideration in reproductive health discussions.