Can acute lymphoblastic leukemia be cured?
Overview of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is a fast-growing cancer that affects the white blood cells, causing them to multiply and crowding out other cells. It is the most common type of childhood cancer and affects children more than adults. It is also known as acute lymphocytic leukemia.
Treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is typically treated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy and/or a stem cell transplant. Depending on the type of ALL and the patient's overall health, one or more of these treatments may be used. A combination of treatments is often necessary to achieve the best outcome.
The goal of treatment is to achieve remission, which means that the cancer is no longer detectable. The prognosis for people with ALL varies depending on the type of ALL and the patient's overall health. While some people can be cured of their ALL, others may require ongoing treatment.
Can Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) be Cured?
The answer to this question is yes, acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can be cured in some cases. With aggressive treatment, many people can achieve remission and, in some cases, a cure. The chances of being cured depend on the type of ALL and the patient’s overall health.
In general, people with favorable characteristics (such as young age, certain types of ALL, and good overall health) have a higher chance of being cured. However, some people with unfavorable characteristics (such as older age, certain types of ALL, and poor overall health) may also be cured with aggressive treatment. It is important to speak with your doctor about your individual prognosis.