Association of Serum Leptin Level with Obesity in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a medical problem in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Obesity is associated with many complications, so it is important to investigate the respective etiology. Leptin is a protein synthesized in the fatty tissue and is effective in the control of obesity. Survey of leptin in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors could be helpful in controlling obesity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective study, 53 pediatric patients diagnosed with ALL between 2006 and 2012 from Southern Iran, were enrolled. We examined body mass index (BMI) status and performed laboratory measuring tests including triglyceride, cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, leptin at diagnosis time and then every 6 months and in the last visit. RESULTS: Participants consisted of 35 male and 18 female patients. At the time of diagnosis, 5.66% were overweight or obese, whereas at the end of treatment, approximately 13 patients (24.53%) were overweight or obese. The median and interquartile range (IQR) for blood leptin level were significantly higher for obese patients than other patients (885, 1120 vs. 246, 494 pg/ml), (P=0.030). The median and IQR were also significantly higher in females than in males (861, 969 vs. 204, 267 pg/ml), (P=0.006). CONCLUSION: Obesity is a complication of ALL treatment. It is associated with elevated blood leptin level. Hypothalamus leptin resistance in obese patients should be considered. In each visit, clinicians should weight and their patient’s BMI take into account.