Leukemia after Cytotoxic Chemotherapy — A Pyrrhic Victory?

Abstract

Another such victory over the Romans and we are undone. — Plutarch, Lives AN increasing number of patients with neoplastic disorders survive for long periods after treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy, administered alone or in combination with other forms of therapy. It has been recognized for some time, however, that in persons cured of one cancer a second may develop, either because of an underlying predisposition or as a result of the carcinogenic effects of successful therapy.^{1 , 2} Ironically, even the fact that this problem has become a serious consideration indicates a substantial measure of progress in clinical oncology.There is an . . .