Prophylactic treatment of the central nervous system in acute lymphoblastic leukemia. CT findings in 45 children off therapy

Ital J Neurol Sci. 1981 Dec;2(4):361-5.

Abstract

45 children with ALL treated with intrathecal Methotrexate and radiation therapy, all in hematologic remission, have been examined with brain CT at intervals varying from 3 to 6 years after completion of CNS prophylaxis. Abnormalities were detected in 20% of the children; the main findings were: calcifications within the brain parenchyma in 3 patients; enlargement of the ventricular system and/or sulci in 8. The 3 patients with calcifications had seizures during or after treatment whereas those with dilatation of the ventricular system or sulci presented no neurological signs.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Brain Neoplasms / prevention & control*
  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Injections, Spinal
  • Leukemia, Lymphoid / diagnostic imaging
  • Leukemia, Lymphoid / radiotherapy
  • Leukemia, Lymphoid / therapy*
  • Methotrexate / administration & dosage*
  • Methotrexate / adverse effects
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Methotrexate