The influence of RANKL/osteoprotegerin on the prognosis of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Abstract

Aims: The aim is to investigate the association of the osteoprotegerin (OPG)/ soluble(s) receptor activator nuclear kappa B ligand (RANKL) with the prognosis of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Methods: Patients with the diagnosis of ALL between the years 2008-2010, were enrolled in the study. Demographic characteristics and complete blood count findings, treatment responses, as well as OPG and sRANKL levels were evaluated on admission and at the end of induction treatment. Results: Mean serum levels of OPG and sRANKL on admission were 38,6 ±19,03 ng/ml and 0,22±0,24 ng/ml, respectively. Whereas, at the end of induction, serum levels were measured as 35,5±40,8 ng/ml for OPG and 0,033±0,056 ng/ml for sRANKL. A statistically significant decrease was determined for sRANKL at the end of induction therapy, compared to admission (p:0,000). Conclusion: In the current research, OPG and sRANKL are increased at diagnosis of childhood B-ALL. Whereas, no significant relationship between the OPG and sRANKL levels and the disease prognosis was determined.