The importance of minimal residual disease for detection of late relapse in B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Abstract

Background: The minimal residual disease (MRD) level in patients with B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is the strongest independent predictor of relapse and survival. Assessment of MRD plays a crucial role in the treatment of B-ALL. Case report: We performed long-term monitoring of a 30-year-old woman with B-ALL of standard risk for MRD using multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC). After five years of monitoring, molecular relapse of the disease was confirmed. Conclusion: This case illustrates that more extended monitoring for MRD, even by only MFC when other newer so-phisticated diagnostics are not available, is essential in detecting early relapse in patients with B-ALL of standard risk. © 2022, Lithografia Antoniadis I - Psarras Th G.P.. All rights reserved.