Adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects mature T cells, a type of white blood cell involved in immune response. It is most commonly caused by infection with the human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), which is transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusions, and from mother to child during breastfeeding.
ATL typically affects adults with a history of HTLV-1 infection, and is more prevalent in regions where HTLV-1 is endemic, such as southwestern Japan, the Caribbean islands, and parts of Central and South America. The disease progresses slowly and may take several years to manifest symptoms after initial HTLV-1 infection.
Symptoms of ATL can vary, but commonly include fatigue, enlarged lymph nodes, skin lesions, fever, night sweats, and bone pain. The disease can affect various organs including the blood, lymph nodes, skin, liver, and lungs.
Treatment options for ATL depend on the stage and type of the disease, but usually involve a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, antiviral medications, and stem cell transplantation. The prognosis for ATL is generally poor, with a median survival time of less than one year. However, some patients may respond well to treatment and achieve remission.
Given the aggressive nature and poor prognosis of ATL, early diagnosis, regular screening for HTLV-1 infection, and preventive measures are important to help reduce the incidence and impact of this devastating disease.
