Development of Secondary T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a Child With Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a severe life-threatening disorder, characterized by hyperactivation of macrophages A 12-year-old female was referred to our center, the diagnosis of HLH was made for the patient and immunosuppressive regimen was started After a 2-year follow-up, the patient developed secondary T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), confirmed by flow cytometric studies Treatment was started based on T-ALL protocol, but the patient died because of relapse and sepsis This case highlights the issue of secondary malignancy following HLH and demonstrates the need for continued follow-up in such patients Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010,55 725-726 (C) 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc