In a nutshell
This study examined the impact of aspergillosis lung infection on the outcomes of patients with acute leukemia. Researchers found that this infection can reduce survival in these patients.
Some background
Acute leukemia is a cancer of the bone marrow. This leads to an abnormal immune system. Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that affects patients with a poor immune system. Patients with acute leukemia are more likely to develop aspergillosis. It is important to research the effect of this infection on the treatment of patients.
Methods & findings
175 patients with acute leukemia were included in the study. 136 patients had acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and 39 had acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Patients were observed for 5 years.
Aspergillosis was found in 28 patients (16%). Overall survival after 2 years was 69.8% in patients without infection compared to 31.7% in those with infection. 2-year survival after transplant was affected by aspergillosis infection (49.6%) compared to non-infection (79.2%). Survival was similar in patients with suspected (28.2%) and those with confirmed aspergillosis (36.4%).
The bottom line
The study concluded that aspergillosis infection impacts the long-term survival of patients with acute leukemia. The authors suggest that antifungal treatment should be given during and after leukemia treatment.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about treating aspergillosis during your leukemia treatment.
Published By :
Leukemia & lymphoma
Date :
May 23, 2019
