EFFECT OF MEDITERRANEAN DIET ON INCIDENCE AND SEVERITY OF INFECTION IN ACUTE MYELOID LEUKEMIA PATIENTS UNDERGOING INDUCTION CHEMOTHERAPY

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive subtype of leukemia that results from genetic mutations in myeloid progenitor cells, disrupting normal blood cell development. These changes cause immature cells to accumulate in the bone marrow and spread to other tissues. AML treatment involves aggressive chemotherapy tailored to cytogenetics, risk stratification and performance status of the patients. Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a significant complication frequently linked to chemotherapy. The repercussions of FN can involve dose reductions, treatment delays, and a considerable effect on morbidity and mortality. In leukemia patients, malnutrition arises through various mechanisms, in addition delays in providing appropriate nutritional support exacerbate the problem of malnutrition in cancer patients. Maintaining good nutritional status during induction chemotherapy is associated with shorter hospital stays and improved outcome. Nutritional interventions have the potential to reduce chemotherapy-induced inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, and lower oxidative stress. Mediterranean diet, with its focus on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods, could offer potential benefits for AML patients undergoing induction chemotherapy. This dietary pattern is particularly appealing due to its accessibility, adaptability, and lack of strict restrictions.AIM OF THE WORK:The aim of this work was to study the influence of Mediterranean diet on the incidence and severity of infection and mortality in adult Egyptian acute myeloid leukemia patients undergoing standard induction chemotherapy.