Risk-adapted treatment of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Optimal use of antileukemic agents and stringent application of risk-directed therapy in clinical trials have resulted in steady improvement in the outcome of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with current cure rates exceeding 80% in developed countries. The intensity of treatment varies substantially among subsets of patients, as therapy is designed to reduce acute and long-term toxicity in low-risk groups while improving outcomes in poor risk groups by treatment intensification. Recent advances in genome-wide screening techniques, pharmacogenomic studies, and development of molecular therapeutics are ushering in an era of more refined personalized therapy.
Jeha
Sima
S
Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, USA. sima.jeha@stjude.org
Pui
Ching-Hon
CH
D000367:Age Factors; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D007958:Leukocyte Count; D054198:Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / Q000628:therapy*; D011379:Prognosis; D012074:Remission Induction; D012307:Risk Factors; D033581:Stem Cell Transplantation
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents