Evaluation of prednisolone and vincristine with and without L-asparaginase in acute lymphatic leukemia of childhood

Effects of two (vincristine and prednisolone) and three (vincristine, prednisolone and L-asparaginase) drugs induction regimen was evaluated with regard to induction of remission and subsequent relapse in acute lymphatic leukemia in childhood. Central nervous system prophylaxis and maintenance drugs schedule was same in children with two drugs (group I) and 3 drugs (group II) induction regimen. Successful induction of remission was achieved in 22(78.6%) in group landl 6(80%) in group II. Relapse, however, occurred early in group II. Sixteen (56.3%) patients in 3(13.6%) in group I had relapsed within 6months after complete remission (p< 0.05). Adverse risk factors were similar in both the groups and did not account for early relapses. It is suggested that poor supportive therapy (platelet concentrates and antibiotics) and nutrition of children could be contributory factors towards early deaths resulting in low remission rate.