GASTROINTESTINAL COMPLICATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH ACUTE AND CHRONIC LEUKEMIA

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 24  (1) , 67-71
Abstract
Between July 1, 1972 and June 30, 1977, 541 leukemic patients were admitted to the University Hospital in Edmonton [Alberta, Canada]. Of 11 patients who underwent emergency operation for complications of leukemia or antileukemic therapy 8 died within 30 days of operation. Six cases are reviewed to illustrate the 4 basic types of gastrointestinal lesions and complications of leukemia: hemorrhagic and agranulocytic necrosis, leukemic infiltrates and fungal lesions. A 5th type which is a mixture of the 4 basic types was also noted. An aggressive approach, consisting of close monitoring and early laparotomy combined with vigorous supportive therapy, probably should be used when dealing with suspected gastrointestinal complications in leukemic patients.