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[Acute lymphoblastic leukemia in infants--results of treatment according to infant leukemia protocol--POG 8493]

D Sońta-Jakimczyk1, J Armata, J Bogusławska-Jaworska

  • 1I Katedry i Kliniki Pediatrii Sl. A. M., Zabrzu.

Insights

Treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in infants showed poor outcomes. Further research is needed for more effective infant ALL therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Hematology
  • Clinical Research

Background:

  • Infants with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) historically face a poorer prognosis compared to older children.
  • Understanding treatment responses in this vulnerable population is crucial for improving outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the treatment outcomes of infants diagnosed with ALL under a specific program (POG 8493).
  • To evaluate event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) rates in this cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of treatment results for 9 infants enrolled in program POG 8493.
  • Assessment of clinical parameters including white blood cell (WBC) counts, central nervous system (CNS) involvement, remission, relapse, and survival status.

Main Results:

  • Eight out of 9 infants achieved remission, but 6 experienced relapse, predominantly in the bone marrow (BM).
  • Relapses occurred early (within 8 months) in 5 infants and late (52 months) in one.
  • Four children died post-relapse; four survived, with two in first complete remission (I RC) and two in second complete remission (II RC).
  • The 4-year event-free survival (EFS) was 0.25, and the 4-year survival rate was 0.44.

Conclusions:

  • The POG 8493 program demonstrated limited efficacy in achieving long-term outcomes for infant ALL.
  • The high relapse rate and suboptimal survival underscore the need for novel and more effective treatment strategies for infant ALL.

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