Lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is a form of acute leukemia, which means that it progresses quickly. While ALL is highly treatable, it can be terminal in some cases.
What is Lymphoblastic Leukemia?
Lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that develops from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow. As the cancer progresses, it crowds out healthy cells and prevents them from doing their job to fight infection. ALL is also classified as an acute leukemia, which means it progresses quickly and requires prompt treatment.
Who is at Risk for Lymphoblastic Leukemia?
ALL is most common in children, but can also occur in adults. It occurs more often in boys than in girls. Other risk factors for ALL include having a family history of leukemia, being exposed to radiation or certain chemicals, and having certain genetic disorders such as Down syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome.
What are the Symptoms of Lymphoblastic Leukemia?
The most common symptoms of ALL are fatigue, fever, and bruising or bleeding easily. Other symptoms may include pain in the bones or joints, weight loss, night sweats, swollen lymph nodes, and frequent infections.
Can Lymphoblastic Leukemia be Terminal?
In some cases, ALL can be terminal. The prognosis for ALL depends on the age of the patient, the type of leukemia, and how advanced the cancer is. If ALL is caught early, the chance of a successful treatment is much higher. Treatment options for ALL include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplants.