The goal of remission induction is to cause a complete remission - that is to eradicate over 99% of the leukemic cell burden.
Aim is to restore normal hematopoiesis.
Drugs used generally include:
- Glucocorticoid (dexamethasone or prednisone)
- Vincristine
- L-asparaginase
- Anthracycline for High-Risk cases
With modern chemotherapy and supportive care 98% of children can be expected to go into complete remission.
1% of patients die of therapy toxicity during this phase.
Patients typically in hospital for 1-2 weeks then remainder of therapy done as outpatient.
