MRD (Minimal Residual Disease) is defined as detection of minute levels of residual leukemic cells (~1 in 10,000) by specialized techniques, which are not identifiable through conventional morphology. MRD is defined as any approach-like cytogenetics, flow cytometry, PCR-based tools-aimed at detecting quantifying residual tumor cells beyond sensitivity level of cytomorphology. MRD assessment during various time points of ALL treatment aids in Risk stratification, treatment modification and prognostication
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy of childhood with incidence of 5-6 in 100,000 children below age of 15 years.