What treatment is commonly used for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia?

Combination chemotherapy is the cornerstone of treatment for children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This approach involves the use of multiple chemotherapy drugs that work synergistically to target and kill leukemia cells while minimizing resistance. The treatment is typically delivered in phases, including induction, consolidation, and maintenance therapy, to ensure comprehensive management of the disease and reduce the risk of relapse.

The rationale for using combination chemotherapy stems from the need for aggressive treatment to achieve remission and to address the heterogeneous nature of ALL. Different drugs target various aspects of the cancer cells’ biology, enhancing overall efficacy and allowing for a more effective and durable response.

Other treatment modalities such as radiation therapy may be used in specific situations, such as in cases where there is central nervous system involvement or when dealing with the residual disease, but they are not the primary treatment. Bone marrow transplant can be considered in certain high-risk cases or in relapsed ALL, but it is not the first-line approach. Observation is generally not appropriate for ALL, given the aggressive nature of the disease that requires immediate intervention.