BCR-ABL positive T cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (T-ALL): Exploring A Rare Case with A Comprehensive Review

Setare Kheyrandish and colleagues reported an unusual case of CD4+/CD8+ BCR-ABL+ T-ALL in an 11-year-old male from Iran, providing a comprehensive overview of his medical history, laboratory results, and treatment regimen. The patient exhibited symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, splenomegaly, anemia, leukocytosis, and significant thrombocytopenia. The blood smear analysis revealed a predominance of irregular, convoluted, and cleaved nuclear blasts characterized by fine chromatin. The treatment protocol included imatinib in conjunction with induction chemotherapy. Following a two-month treatment period, the patient attained complete remission, with Minimal/Measurable Residual Disease (MRD) levels being undetectable. By outlining the patient's clinical features and necessary diagnostic evaluations, this manuscript enhances the understanding of this intricate disease subtype. Additionally, through the examination and comparison of this case with existing literature, the research establishes a foundation for improved characterization of the disease and the formulation of more effective treatment approaches. The full-text of their article is available for download here.

Guideline for Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteoporosis in Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Patients
In recent years, the health-related quality of life and management of patients suffering from thalassemia have seen considerable advancements, primarily due to the implementation of standard treatments and the availability of safe blood transfusions, complemented by effective chelation therapy aimed at mitigating iron overload. Transfusion-dependent thalassemia is linked to various skeletal deformities, notably osteoporosis, which poses a significant morbidity risk for these individuals. Osteoporosis is defined by diminished bone mass and an elevated likelihood of fractures, especially in the lumbar region and among patients experiencing extramedullary hematopoiesis. In light of the significant occurrence of thalassemia-related osteoporosis in Iran and the associated challenges it poses to both individuals and the healthcare system, Mojtaba Malek et al. established a national protocol aimed at preventing the progression of this condition, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment. The full-text of their article is available for download here.