Prevalence and predictors of weight loss during induction therapy for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Objective: Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma often experience significant weight gain during induction therapy. However, a subgroup of patients may experience weight loss, which can impact outcomes; thus, identifying and understanding this underrecognized concern is important. Our aim was to identify the prevalence and predictors for weight loss during ALL induction therapy.

Methods: This was a single-institution retrospective study of 187 patients, ages 2 to 20 y, diagnosed with ALL or lymphoblastic lymphoma. We analyzed weight trends during induction therapy and predictors of weight loss.

Results: Significant weight loss (≥5%) occurred in 17% of patients. Having high-risk disease, trisomy 21, overweight/obese status at the time of diagnosis, and/or hyperglycemia were positively associated with weight loss and negatively associated with weight gain during induction therapy.

Conclusion: Future studies should aim to better understand the etiology and importance of weight loss during induction therapy.