This new series on the treatment of cancer is sponsored by the VICe. The editors and authors feel strongly that more standardiza­ tion is needed on a worldwide basis in cancer therapy. This, of course, is only possible if experts from all countries subscribe to a joint policy of making their treatment designs available to practising oncologists all over the world. Current Treatment of Cancer will discuss all the equipment and methods now in use in cancer therapy. It will cover all types of cancer, thus providing the reader with comprehensive information on cancer management. In recent decades there has been a tremendous improvement in the treatment of cancer, and there is hope for even further success in this fight. We are convinced that this series will help us to make a concerted response to the challenge of cancer. VICC Treatment and Rehabilitation Programme Ismail Elsebai Chairman VII Preface During the past two decades we have witnessed an exciting evolution in the un­ derstanding and management of hematologic malignancies. The number of drugs available 20 years ago for the treatment of acute leukemia was so small that the disease in children and in adults could be discussed within one chapter. Since then, rapid progress has been made in the management of childhood leukemia, making for a much better prognosis. Over the past 10 years we have seen the same developments in respect of leukemia in adults.