Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells in children. The treatment for this type of cancer can vary depending on the child’s age, overall health, and the type and stage of the cancer. Treatment typically involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and occasionally stem cell transplantation.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is the primary form of treatment for ALL. This involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and dividing. Chemotherapy drugs can be taken orally or injected into a vein (IV). The drugs may be given alone or in combination with other drugs. The length and intensity of the chemotherapy treatment will depend on the type and stage of the cancer.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is typically used in combination with chemotherapy to treat ALL. This involves the use of high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. The radiation is usually focused on the chest and abdomen and is usually given in short treatments over a period of several weeks.
Stem Cell Transplantation
Stem cell transplantation may be an option for some children with ALL. This procedure involves replacing the patient’s damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor. The stem cells are injected into the patient’s bloodstream where they will take up residence and begin producing healthy, cancer-fighting white blood cells.
Other Treatments
Other treatments may be used to help manage the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These can include medications to reduce nausea and vomiting, antibiotics to fight infection, and transfusions of red blood cells or platelets to replace those destroyed by the cancer or treatments.
The treatment for ALL is often a long and difficult process, but with proper care and support, children can make a full recovery and live healthy, happy lives.