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

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.