Gastrointestinal complications in patients with acute and chronic leukemia.

Between July 1, 1972 and June 30, 1977, 541 leukemic patients were admitted to the University Hospital in Edmonton. Eight of 11 patients who underwent emergency operation for complications of leukemia or antileukemic therapy died within 30 days of operation. Six cases are reviewed to illustrate the four basic types of gastrointestinal lesions and complications of leukemia: hemorrhagic and agranulocytic necrosis, leukemic infiltrates and fungal lesions. A fifth type which is a mixture of the four basic types was also noted. As a result of their experience and a review of the literature the authors believe that an aggressive approach, consisting of close monitoring and early laparotomy combined with vigorous supportive therapy, should be used when dealing with suspected gastrointestinal complications in leukemic patients.