Incidental diagnosis of pediatric chronic myeloid leukemia in the
setting of acute appendicitis: A case report and review of management
strategies
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is rare in children, accounting for 2-3%
of pediatric leukemias. We present a case of a 10-year-old with acute
appendicitis leading to the incidental discovery of CML. Due to concerns
about leukostasis and tumor lysis syndrome, immediate surgical
intervention was deferred in favor of medical management with
antibiotics and hydroxyurea, followed by appendectomy once the
leukocytosis improved. This case highlights the successful use of
medical management as a bridge to surgery, providing novel insights into
management of co-occurring appendicitis and CML in pediatric patients.