The signs and symptoms of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) may vary depending on the specific type of leukemia and the stage of the disease. Some common signs and symptoms of ALL may include:
Fatigue and weakness: ALL can cause the bone marrow to produce fewer red blood cells, which can lead to a lack of energy and fatigue.
Bruising and bleeding easily: ALL can cause a deficiency of platelets, which are cells that help blood clot. This can lead to bruising and bleeding easily, even with minor injuries as well as as bleeding gums or nose bleeds.
Fever and infections: ALL can cause high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above as well as weaken the immune system, making it easier for infections to occur.
Swelling of the lymph nodes: ALL can cause the lymph nodes to become swollen, especially in the neck, underarm, or groin.
Shortness of breath: ALL can affect the production of red blood cells and cause a lack of oxygen in the body, leading to shortness of breath.
Pain in the bones or joints: ALL can cause bone or joint pain, especially in the legs.
Loss of appetite and weight loss: Some people with ALL may lose their appetite and experience unintended weight loss.
Night sweats: This is when a person experiences sweating while they are sleeping. It can be a symptom of lymphoblastic leukemia as the body’s immune system is affected by the cancer cells and may not be able to regulate body temperature properly.
Abdominal pain: This can be a symptom of lymphoblastic leukemia as the cancer cells may affect the organs in the abdomen, causing pain.
Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight without trying can be a sign of lymphoblastic leukemia as the cancer cells may affect the body’s ability to absorb and use nutrients properly.
Purple skin rash: A rash on the skin that is purple in color may be a symptom of lymphoblastic leukemia as the cancer cells can affect the blood vessels and cause them to become more visible.
Pale skin: Pale skin can be a sign of lymphoblastic leukemia as the cancer cells may affect the production of red blood cells, which can lead to anemia and a lack of oxygen in the body.
In some cases of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, the affected cells can spread from your bloodstream into your central nervous system. This can cause a series of neurological symptoms (related to the brain and nervous system), including:
- headaches
- seizures (fits)
- vomiting
- blurred vision
- dizziness
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well, so it is important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.