Splenectomy in chronic myeloid leukemia in Japan
Fukuda, M.; Miura, A.B.; Shibata, A.
Nihon Ketsueki Gakkai Zasshi Journal of Japan Haematological Society 44(1): 67-77
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-5806 PMID: 6947677 Document Number: 176969
The current situation of splencetomy for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) as a therapeutic method [in Japan] was investigated. Since 24 of 82 cases were still alive, no definite conclusion about the effects on the prognosis of CML could be drawn as yet. Judging from the postoperative clinical pictures, temporary but significant benefit has been achieved in the majority of cases who underwent splenectomy for splenic events and hypersplenism. Operation during the early phase of disease neither delays the onset of blast crisis nor prolongs survival time. The morbidity of the procedure is formidable due to bleeding, thromboembolic complications and infections.