Immunotherapy in acute leukemias. Possible applications in children.

The role of immunotherapy in maintenance of remission in children with acute leukemias is briefly reviewed. With few exceptions, the bulk of clinical trials of immunotherapy in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia have failed to demonstrate a beneficial effect. Immunotherapy trials for acute myelogenous leukemia mainly have involved adults. Though the results of many studies are incomplete or inconclusive, an increased median survival time has been frequently observed. The mechanisms of action remain obscure. However, further immunotherapy trials in children with acute myelogenous leukemia may be a reasonable alternative, in view of the generally poor long-term results with conventional chemotherapy.