Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Definition

Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow that starts in immature lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. It is the most common type of childhood cancer.

Characteristics

Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, easy bruising or bleeding, bone pain, swollen lymph nodes, frequent infections, and pale skin. ALL progresses rapidly and requires immediate treatment after diagnosis.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

Diagnosis involves blood tests, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, and genetic studies. Prognosis has improved significantly in recent decades, with high cure rates, especially when the disease is detected early and treated aggressively.

Treatment

Treatment typically involves multiple phases: induction, consolidation, and maintenance chemotherapy. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy may also be used in certain cases. Stem cell transplant may be considered for high-risk or relapsed disease.

Last Revised: 12 May , 2025