Leukemia in gastrointestinal organs as cause of treatment failure: 378 cases analyzed. Issue 11 (26th September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cunningham, Isabel; Worthley, Daniel
• Is Part Of: American journal of hematology. Volume 93:Issue 11(2018:Nov.)
• Page Start: 1327
• Page End: 1336
• Publication Date: 2018-09-26
• Subjects: Hematology -- Periodicals; 616.15
• DOI: 10.1002/ajh.25250
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0361-8609

Abstract

Abstract: Leukemia growing as tumors in gastrointestinal organs is an under‐investigated cause of treatment failure and death. These present with symptoms often mistaken for common toxicities but may grow large before symptoms. To synthesize experience available only in case reports, 378 were analyzed. Invasive and metastatic behavior typical of solid GI tumors was revealed even when marrow was uninvolved. Within 3 months of diagnosis, 33% had died, 47% within 1 year. Survivals of 4 to 18 years after involvement suggest cure is possible. Evidence is presented that combined local and systemic therapy has successfully treated GI leukemic tumors when identified early.