Leukoencephalopathy and Elevated Levels of Myelin Basic Protein in the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Abstract

AS the survival of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia has improved, increased attention has focused on the potential toxicity and adverse long-term sequelae of antileukemic therapy. In particular, there is considerable interest in the toxic effects on the central nervous system that may result from therapy to treat or prevent meningeal leukemia. A wide range of neurotoxicities have been described, the most serious of which is the syndrome of necrotizing leukoencephalopathy associated with cranial irradiation and the administration of methotrexate.^{1 2 3 4 5} Clinically, patients with this delayed form of neurotoxicity present with symptoms such as poor performance in school, forgetfulness, and confusion. . . .