Pediatrics acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Abstract

Author(s): Karimeldin Mohamed Ali Salih

Introduction: Malignancies remain a leading global cause of death, with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) being the most common pediatric leukemia, especially affecting boys aged 2 years-5 years. Characterized by uncontrolled T or B cell proliferation, ALL disrupts normal cell production, though its exact cause is unknown, but with some links to immunotherapy and genetic abnormalities.

Objectives for the review: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in children has a favorable prognosis; however, diagnosis is usually delayed due to symptoms overlapping with other common infections. To enhance pediatricians and health care workers to focus on the advancing diagnostic and treatment approaches for ALL and to develop high index suspicion for the diagnosis of ALL.

Methods: This review article employs a comprehensive approach to evaluate the diagnostic and treatment protocols for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in pediatric patients. The methodology includes a thorough literature review of existing guidelines and research studies, focusing on the workup processes such as complete blood counts, peripheral blood smears, bone marrow studies, flow cytometry, and genetic testing. The review also examines the classification of ALL, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis through immunophenotyping and molecular genetic testing. Furthermore, the article discusses treatment strategies, including the implementation of antibiotic prophylaxis to mitigate infection-related complications during chemotherapy. Data from various studies and clinical guidelines are synthesized to provide recommendations for improving patient outcomes in ALL management. Google engine was used to search for ALL, using keywords such as acute, leukemia, lymphoblastic, malignancy, and childhood.

Results: Genetic mutation and abnormality interact with many other factors to culminate in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The modified FAB and WHO classification remains the main classification for childhood leukemias. The symptoms and signs are the reflections of the bone marrow replacement by malignant cells and subsequent pancytopenia, invasion of other tissue, and infections. Complete blood picture, peripheral blood smear, bone marrow study, flow cytometry, and genetic studies. Despite the known protocols and their phases, antibiotic prophylaxis might improve the diagnosis in selected cases.

Conclusion: The favorable outcome from acute lymphoblastic leukemia might be improved further by adopting standard protocol for investigation, treatment, and prophylaxis.

Share this article