Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Why choose us for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia?

What you need to know about Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells, particularly a type called lymphocytes. It’s characterized by the rapid production of immature lymphoblasts (a type of white blood cell) in the bone marrow, which overcrowd the bone marrow and interfere with the production of normal blood cells.

 
  • B-cell ALL: The majority of ALL cases (about 85%) are of B-cell origin.
  • T-cell ALL: The remaining cases involve T-cell origin.

The exact cause of ALL is often unknown, but several factors may contribute:

  • Genetic mutations
  • Environmental factors (exposure to radiation, certain chemicals)
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Down syndrome and other genetic disorders are associated with a higher risk.
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Pale skin
  • Frequent infections
  • Fever
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Bone pain
  • Enlarged lymph nodes, liver, or spleen
  • Blood tests: Complete blood count (CBC) to check for abnormal levels of blood cells.
  • Bone marrow biopsy: To examine the cells in the bone marrow.
  • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): To check for leukemia cells in the cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound to detect enlarged organs or other abnormalities.
  • Chemotherapy: Main treatment for ALL, which involves powerful drugs to kill cancer cells.
  • Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific abnormalities in cancer cells.
  • Radiation therapy: Sometimes used to kill leukemia cells in specific areas, such as the brain or spine.
  • Stem cell transplant: May be recommended for high-risk or relapsed ALL, involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
  • Immunotherapy: A newer approach that helps the immune system fight cancer.
  • Prognosis varies based on several factors including age, overall health, subtype of ALL, response to treatment, and genetic abnormalities.
  • With modern treatment, the prognosis for ALL has improved significantly, especially in children.
  • Some subtypes of ALL have a better prognosis than others.

Since the exact cause of ALL is often unknown, prevention strategies are limited:

  • Avoid exposure to known carcinogens (like benzene, radiation).
  • Genetic counseling may be considered for families with a history of leukemia or genetic disorders.
  • Survival rates vary widely depending on factors such as age, overall health, subtype of ALL, and response to treatment.
  • Overall, the 5-year survival rate for ALL in children is high, around 90%.
  • In adults, the 5-year survival rate varies but has improved over the years, ranging from 40-70%.
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Survival rates are improving with advancements in treatment and supportive care.

 

It’s important for individuals with symptoms suggestive of leukemia to seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes.

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