Use of all-trans-retinoic acid [ATRA] as remission induction agent in acute promyelocytic leukemia [APL]

We present here the details of treatment and hospital course of three patients with APL who were given ATRA therapy. Two complete remmissions and one partial remission were obtained. In addition, the coagulopathy present in one case was controlled easily. The mode of action and other features of ATRA therapy are discussed

usefulness of granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor [GM-CSF] in prolonged chemotherapy-induced leukopenia

A study was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of granulocyle-macrophage colony stimulating factor [GM - CSF] in prolonged chemotherapy-induced leucopenia. Of the total of ten cases studied seven [70%] had at least 50% increase in total leukocyte count [TLC] and in absolute neutrophil count [ANC]. GM-CSF was well tolerated and no major side effects were noted. Increasing counts were associated with reduced fever and signs and symptoms of infection