Long-term survival (cures) in childhood acute leukemia. Follow-up of nine cases of acute lymphatic leukemia and two of acute myelogenous leukemia with complete remission lasting more than 10 years, three of them with normal progeny.

Abstract

11 children, aged between 18 months and 14 years, suffering from acute leukemia showed extremely long-term survival lasting 10-28 years, at an average of 18 years. 9 cases had acute lymphatic leukemia of the low risk group (apart from their age). 2 girls had acute myelogenous leukemia of the promyelocytic type, 1 of them belonging to the high risk group. Treatment was given for 2-10 years, at an average of 5 years, mostly in the form of modified 'monotherapy'. Total therapy, CNS prophylaxis (irradiation and methotrexate intrathecally) was not employed. The children were mostly controlled as outpatients to avoid the danger of hospital infections and to give them a better psychological ambiance. 3 grown-up patients are parents of altogether 6 children, which proves the possibility of normal progeny. The description of these exceptional cases, however, should not lead to the abolition of the present, very promising, intensive therapy with a high percentage of 5-year survivals.