Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells, specifically the lymphocytes. It is called “acute” because it progresses rapidly and requires urgent treatment. ALL is the most common type of leukemia in children, but it can also occur in adults.
The cause of ALL is not fully understood, but certain factors may increase the risk of developing the disease, including exposure to certain chemicals, radiation, or a family history of leukemia. Symptoms of ALL may include fatigue, fever, weight loss, bruising or bleeding easily, and swollen lymph nodes or liver.
Treatment for ALL typically involves chemotherapy, which is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Other treatments may include stem cell transplantation and targeted therapy.
The specific treatment plan will depend on the specific type of ALL and the overall health of the patient. The outlook for adults with ALL varies and depends on a number of factors, including the type and severity of the leukemia, the patient’s age and overall health, and the response to treatment.