Antibiotic-Induced Obesity in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: An Intricate Network of Antibiotic-Microbiome-Obesity

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the most prevalent cancer among children, necessitating an investigation of its associated complications and comorbidities. Of particular concern is the frequent occurrence of obesity in patients undergoing treatment for childhood leukemia. Obesity is recognized as a risk factor for various cardiovascular conditions, venous thromboembolism (VTE), hypertension, hyperglycemia, diabetes mellitus and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Consequently, a comprehensive examination of this issue from multiple perspectives is essential. The disturbance in gut microbiota diversity, resulting from the administration of Chemotherapy drugs and Antibiotics to these patients, may contribute to the development of obesity. Given the heightened risk of obesity in children with ALL, it is imperative to explore the relationship between obesity and factors such as antibiotic usage in this population. This review aims to synthesize and analyze the most recent published evidence concerning the association of obesity and antibiotics in pediatric ALL. Through this comprehensive analysis, we seek to shed light on the intricate interplay between antibiotics, obesity, and childhood ALL, with the ultimate goal of guiding future research and clinical interventions.