Overview
Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow — the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made.
The word "acute" in acute lymphocytic leukemia comes from the fact that the disease progresses rapidly and creates immature blood cells, rather than mature ones. The word "lymphocytic" in acute lymphocytic leukemia refers to the white blood cells called lymphocytes, which ALL affects. Acute lymphocytic leukemia is also known as acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Acute lymphocytic leukemia is the most common type of cancer in children, and treatments result in a good chance for a cure. Acute lymphocytic leukemia can also occur in adults, though the chance of a cure is greatly reduced.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of acute lymphocytic leukemia may include:
- Bleeding from the gums
- Bone pain
- Fever
- Frequent infections
- Frequent or severe nosebleeds
- Lumps caused by swollen lymph nodes in and around the neck, armpits, abdomen or groin
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Weakness, fatigue or a general decrease in energy
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor or your child's doctor if you notice any persistent signs and symptoms that concern you.
Many signs and symptoms of acute lymphocytic leukemia mimic those of the flu. However, flu signs and symptoms eventually improve. If signs and symptoms don't improve as expected, make an appointment with your doctor.
Causes
Acute lymphocytic leukemia occurs when a bone marrow cell develops changes (mutations) in its genetic material or DNA. A cell's DNA contains the instructions that tell a cell what to do. Normally, the DNA tells the cell to grow at a set rate and to die at a set time. In acute lymphocytic leukemia, the mutations tell the bone marrow cell to continue growing and dividing.
When this happens, blood cell production becomes out of control. The bone marrow produces immature cells that develop into leukemic white blood cells called lymphoblasts. These abnormal cells are unable to function properly, and they can build up and crowd out healthy cells.
It's not clear what causes the DNA mutations that can lead to acute lymphocytic leukemia.
Risk factors
Factors that may increase the risk of acute lymphocytic leukemia include:
- Previous cancer treatment. Children and adults who've had certain types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other kinds of cancer may have an increased risk of developing acute lymphocytic leukemia.
- Exposure to radiation. People exposed to very high levels of radiation, such as survivors of a nuclear reactor accident, have an increased risk of developing acute lymphocytic leukemia.
- Genetic disorders. Certain genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, are associated with an increased risk of acute lymphocytic leukemia.
Sept. 21, 2022
FAQs
Acute lymphocytic leukemia occurs when a bone marrow cell develops changes (mutations) in its genetic material or DNA. A cell's DNA contains the instructions that tell a cell what to do. Normally, the DNA tells the cell to grow at a set rate and to die at a set time.
What is lymphocytic leukemia caused by? ›
CLL happens when there are changes in the genetic material (DNA) in bone marrow cells. The cause of these genetic changes is unknown, so it's hard to predict who might get CLL. There are a few factors that might raise your risk.
Who is most likely to get acute lymphocytic leukemia? ›
It is slightly more common in boys than in girls. ALL is the least common type of leukemia among adults. About 1 in 3 cases of ALL occur in adults. Adults over age 50 have a higher risk for ALL than those between the ages of 20 and 50.
How does acute leukemia start? ›
Leukemia starts when the DNA of a single cell in your bone marrow changes (mutates) and can't develop and function normally.
What are the warning signs of acute leukemia? ›
Common leukemia signs and symptoms include: Fever or chills. Persistent fatigue, weakness. Frequent or severe infections.
What do leukemia spots look like? ›
Can be red, purple or brown. May appear as a flat, unraised skin rash. Do not change color when pressed against.
What are the first signs of leukaemia? ›
Leukaemia signs and symptoms
The main symptoms include: tiredness and/or anaemia (pale complexion, weakness and breathlessness) repeated infections (mouth sores, sore throat, fevers, sweats, coughing, frequent passing of urine with irritation, infected cuts and scratches, and boils) increased bruising and bleeding.
What is the life expectancy of someone with acute lymphocytic leukemia? ›
The prognosis for acute lymphoblastic leukemia is determined by the patient's age and therapeutic response. ALL has a five-year survival rate of 68.1 percent. With newer and better treatment approaches, survival rates continue to improve. Those under 35 have a better prognosis, and children have the best prognosis.
What are the red flags of leukemia? ›
Leukemia symptoms commonly include fatigue, breathlessness, infections, and bruising or bleeding more easily. Leukemia* symptoms vary depending on the type of leukemia. Not everyone gets the same symptoms, and you won't necessarily have all of the symptoms.
What is often mistaken for leukemia? ›
Leukemia is commonly misdiagnosed as the following conditions: Influenza. Fever. Pathological fracture.
You might feel pain in your bones or joints. This might be a dull ache or more of a stabbing pain. It might be worse at different times of the day. Too many abnormal white blood cells collecting in the bones, joints or lymph nodes may cause pain and swelling.
Why do people get acute leukemia? ›
It typically happens when certain genes or chromosomes mutate (change). AML usually affects people age 60 and older, but it can also affect younger adults and children. Acute myeloid leukemia is an aggressive cancer that can be life-threatening.
What is the root cause of leukemia? ›
Leukemia is caused by genetic changes in blood cells produced in bone marrow cells, but all known leukemia-causing genetic mutations are acquired during life, not inherited. However, certain inheritable genetic syndromes can increase the risk for acute leukemia.
Can acute lymphocytic leukemia be prevented? ›
There is no known way to prevent most cases of leukemia at this time. Most people who get acute lymphocytic leukemia have no known risk factors, so there is no way to prevent these leukemias from developing.
