Acute Leukemia and Pregnancy

Abstract

The combination of acute leukemia and pregnancy is infrequent. It is estimated to occur in less than 1 in 75,000 pregnancies. Maternal and fetal outcomes have improved substantially in recent years. In general, multi-agent chemotherapy is given as soon as the diagnosis of leukemia is established, even if it is in the first trimester. There are two important considerations in the management of a patient with leukemia during pregnancy, the mother who needs optimal cancer therapy and the developing fetus who could potentially be affected by the disease and/or the teratogenicity of antineoplactic agents. Vaginal delivery is preferable, and caesarian section is reserved for obstetrical indications only.