Acute lymphoid leukemia

Acute Lymphoid Leukemia (ALL), also known as Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, is a type of cancer that originates from the white blood cells in the bone marrow. It is characterized by the overproduction of immature lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. ALL is most common in children, but it can also occur in adults.

Etiology

The exact cause of ALL is unknown. However, certain factors are believed to increase the risk of developing the disease. These include exposure to high levels of radiation, certain genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, and a history of certain blood disorders.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ALL can vary, but often include fatigue, fever, easy bruising or bleeding, and bone pain. Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, and swollen lymph nodes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ALL typically involves a series of tests, including blood tests, bone marrow tests, and imaging tests. The goal of these tests is to identify the presence of abnormal cells and to determine the type and stage of the leukemia.

Treatment

Treatment for ALL typically involves chemotherapy, which is used to kill the cancer cells. In some cases, a stem cell transplant may be necessary. Other treatments may include radiation therapy and targeted therapy.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ALL varies depending on a number of factors, including the patient's age, the type of ALL, and the stage of the disease at diagnosis. However, with treatment, many people with ALL are able to achieve remission.

See Also

• Leukemia
• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Stem cell transplant