Central nervous system relapse in a child with anaplastic large cell lymphoma: potential for new therapeutic strategies

Abstract

Background: Central nervous system (CNS) relapse is rare in childhood anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) and is associated with a poor prognosis. Case: We describe an 8-year-old boy with ALCL who developed an early CNS relapse without initial CNS disease. Despite aggressive medical management, the patient's neurological status deteriorated rapidly and he died shortly after. Conclusion: Optimal treatment for children with relapsed ALCL involving the CNS remains unclear. Novel agents, including ALK inhibitors, that have CNS-penetration might be helpful and pediatric studies are warranted.