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Risk of leukemia after chemotherapy?

Page last modified on: January 7, 2009
Question from SimonC: Dr. Kaplan, did anyone talk about the growing rates of leukemia and MDS following chemo for breast cancer? That's what happened to me and I'm concerned that women aren't being warned ahead of time that this is a real risk. I know my oncologist didn't talk about it.
Answer —Carol Kaplan, M.D.: Unfortunately, certain chemotherapy regimens are associated with permanent bone marrow toxicity, which can result in leukemia or a pre-leukemic diagnosis such as MDS (myelodysplastic syndrome). These risks have been well described in historical breast cancer trials, but it is important to point out that the risk is miniscule. However, unfortunately, the risk is real. I do believe that when women discuss the pros and cons of chemotherapy in the adjuvant setting with their oncologist, these toxicities should be pointed out. Having said that, if a woman is thought to be a candidate for adjuvant chemotherapy, the benefits of treatment far outweigh the risks of bone marrow toxicity. I am sorry that you have had the experience you have had, and you do well for other patients by sharing that experience.

On Wednesday, December 17, 2008, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Updates from the 2008 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. Ruth Oratz, M.D., F.A.C.P. and Carol Kaplan, M.D. answered your questions about the latest updates on breast cancer risk, screening techniques, treatment options, and more.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Ruth Oratz, M.D., F.A.C.P.Ruth Oratz, M.D., F.A.C.P. is associate professor of clinical medicine at New York University School of Medicine. She is the founder of The Women's Oncology & Wellness Practice in New York City where she specializes in treating women with breast cancer and other malignancies, as well as women at risk for cancer. 

Carol Kaplan, M.D. is an assistant professor of clinical medicine in the Rena Rowan Breast Center at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Her work revolves around the clinical care of breast cancer patients, as well as teaching medical students and house staff.

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