Infection in Adults with Acute Leukemia

Abstract

Until very recently, one new serious infection developed about every two weeks in adults with acute leukemia undergoing remission induction therapy. Nearly 25% had an associated bacteremia; death usually occurred within two to three days of the onset of Gram-negative bacteremia. However, in the past few years certain advances in diagnosis, therapy, and prevention have significantly reduced the number and severity of these serious infections.