
Kevin Krull, PhD
Leukemia itself, not just side effects related to its treatment, may increase the risk for long-term problems with attention, organization and other neurocognitive skills in survivors of the most common childhood cancer, according to recent St. Jude research.
Scientists analyzed the cerebrospinal fluid of 235 St. Jude children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Even before treatment began, some patients’ fluid contained proteins that suggested injury to cells that make up the brain’s white matter. These cells help the brain function correctly.
“This was a surprise. Until now, we had not suspected that leukemia, by itself, or the inflammatory response to the disease, may lead to changes that leave ALL survivors at risk for long-term problems with executive functioning and processing speed,” said Kevin Krull, PhD, of St. Jude Epidemiology and Cancer Control. He and his colleagues also found that genetic variation may make patients vulnerable to such treatment-related problems.
The study appeared in the journal JAMA Oncology.
More Information
-
St. Jude Newsroom
Visit the St. Jude newsroom to read our latest news, find media relations contacts and explore resources for journalists and bloggers.
-
Research at St. Jude
At St. Jude, science matters. From molecular breakthroughs to innovative therapies, our research discovers the cures of tomorrow, and saves children's lives today.
-
Research News & Publications
Browse the latest peer-reviewed articles from St. Jude investigators and clinicians, as well as breaking news, in-depth features and our Scientific Report.
-
About St. Jude
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
-
Clinical & Research Innovation
At St. Jude, we dream big, and build our research programs to match. Explore just a few of the pioneering initiatives that make St. Jude different.
-
Careers
St. Jude is a world-class research hospital seeking a diverse staff of faculty, researchers, clinicians, fundraisers and more. Find a job and help save lives.
-
Education and Training
St. Jude offers world-class scientific and clinical training experiences for fellows, students and other trainees. We also share knowledge through international outreach.