Clinical Features and Prognostic Factors of 18 Children with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

Abstract

To analyze the clinical features and to explore the therapeutic efficacy and prognostic factors of children with anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). The clinical data of 18 children with ALCL admitted in Department of Pediatric Hematology, Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University from April 2011 to November 2017 was collected and analyzed. The male to female ratio was 2∶1, the median age of onset was 6 (0.9-11.3) years old, and the B symptom was positive in 13 cases. The most common initial symptom was lymphadenopathy (in 17 cases). All patients were manifested with multiple organ involvements. 4 cases were classified as clinical stage Ⅱ, 11 cases as stage Ⅲ, and 3 cases as stage Ⅳ. Laboratory tests revealed 9 cases with leukocytosis and 8 cases with CRP＞20 mg/L. The pathological results showed all ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma with Ki-67 rate between 40%-90%. The median follow-up time was 41 months. 2 patients died before treatment, 1 patient was lost to follow-up. 15 patients accepted chemotherapy protocol of CCCG-BNHL-2011. 2 patients relapsed early, the 3 year event-free survival rate was (76.7±10.2)%. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed leukocytosis, increased CRP level, bone involvement and clinical stage were factors affecting prognosis. ALCL is a relatively rare subtype of childhood non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with high invasiveness. Leukocytosis, increased CRP level, bone involvement and clinical stage are poor factors affecting the prognosis of patients.