Contents



Preface

Acute leukemia, which can be either myeloid or lymphocytic, is currently the thirteenth cause of morbidity and the tenth cause of mortality among cancers worldwide (**Figure 1**). Despite differences in epidemiology among the various subtypes (e.g., myeloid leukemia is more common in older adults, whereas lymphocytic leukemia is more common in children), the overall incidence of

In the last two decades, tremendous efforts have been made to understand the pathophysiology and especially the molecular pathogenesis of acute leukemias. Massive parallel sequencing has allowed for the identification of multiple mutations as well as hypotheses about a hierarchy in the sequence of genetic events. This has led to a more refined classification, progressively moving from a morphologybased classification (FAB classification, 1974) to a largely molecular based one

This book presents a brief overview of the history of leukemia diagnosis and treatment. It also examines the biology and diagnosis of acute leukemia through a series of chapters dealing with molecular events as well as stem cell biology. As such, the book largely focuses on conventional therapy of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) based on age subgroups. Highlighted are new

Despite signs of progress in chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation remains a major tool to achieve cure in acute leukemia patients. Thus, the book presents different treatment strategies as well as diagnostic methods for monitoring

Finally, the book summarizes targeted therapies, including those already approved for first- and second-line treatments as well as the molecular mechanisms determin-

leukemia is continuously, though slowly, increasing.

(WHO classification, 2017).

low-toxicity approaches for adolescents.

minimal residual disease after transplant.

*Cancer incidence and mortality statistics worldwide and by region.*

ing drug sensitivity or resistance.

**Figure 1.**
