Survival Rates After Relapse of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Post-Transplant - Oncology

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The survival rate after relapse following transplantation in acute leukemia?


Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL, pre-B) has a reported success rate of about 50% for the first transplant, and if there is a relapse after an allogeneic stem cell transplant, the prognosis can vary.
The five-year survival rate after a mini-transplant (lymphocyte infusion) is generally lower than that of the initial transplant, often reported to be around 20-30%.
However, survival rates can also be assessed at different time intervals, such as one year post-transplant, where the rates may be higher.
It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized information based on the specific case.

W, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/01

Dr. Chen Yunfang reply Oncology


Hello: Since you did not provide the patient's "age" or "how long after the transplant the relapse occurred," I will summarize the current clinical literature findings: 1.
If the patient is a child and relapses within a year and a half post-transplant, the average 5-year survival rate is about 20%.
2.
If the patient is a child and relapses after 3 years post-transplant, the average 5-year survival rate is close to 40%.
3.
If the patient is an adult and relapses within 2 years post-transplant, the average 5-year survival rate is only 7-10%, with an average survival time of around 6 months.
4.
However, if the patient is a young adult (<30 years old) and relapses more than 2 years post-transplant, the average 5-year survival rate can exceed 30%.
These figures are approximate; each individual is unique, and large data sets cannot fully determine outcomes.
You should discuss this in detail with your physician.
The key point in prognosis is that the younger the patient, the better, and the longer the time before relapse after transplantation, the better the outcome.

Reply Date: 2016/05/01

More Info


The survival rates for patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) who experience a relapse after undergoing stem cell transplantation can vary significantly based on several factors, including the patient's age, the timing of the relapse, and the type of subsequent treatment received.
In general, the prognosis for patients who relapse after an initial transplant is concerning. For pediatric patients who relapse within 18 months post-transplant, the five-year survival rate can be as low as 20%. However, if the relapse occurs after three years, this rate may improve to approximately 40%. For adult patients, the statistics are even less favorable; those who relapse within two years of transplantation may have a five-year survival rate of only 7-10%, with an average survival time of around six months. Conversely, younger adults (under 30 years) who relapse after two years may see survival rates closer to 30% or more.

When considering a mini-transplant (also known as a reduced-intensity transplant), which involves the infusion of lymphocytes, the outcomes can be variable. Mini-transplants are often utilized for patients who may not be candidates for a full-intensity transplant due to age or comorbidities. However, the survival rates for mini-transplants in the context of relapse can still be low, particularly if the relapse occurs soon after the initial transplant.
It is essential to note that survival rates are statistical averages and do not predict individual outcomes. Each patient's situation is unique, and many factors can influence prognosis, including the patient's overall health, the specific characteristics of the leukemia, and the response to subsequent treatments.
In terms of the timeframe for evaluating survival rates, the five-year mark is a common standard in oncology to assess long-term outcomes. However, shorter-term evaluations, such as one-year survival rates, are also critical, especially in the context of aggressive diseases like ALL.
Ultimately, it is crucial for patients and their families to have thorough discussions with their healthcare providers to understand the specific circumstances and treatment options available. Oncologists can provide tailored insights based on the latest research and clinical guidelines, which can help in making informed decisions about further treatment and management strategies.
In summary, while the five-year survival rates for relapsed ALL post-transplant can be quite low, especially if the relapse occurs early, individual outcomes can vary widely. Engaging in open communication with healthcare providers is vital for navigating these challenging situations and exploring all available treatment options.

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