Learn more about Acute lymphoblastic leukemia?

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a rare type of cancer that affects the lymphoid line of blood cells and characterized by the development of large numbers of immature and unhealthy lymphocytes. ALL is considered as an aggressive type of leukemia, that’s why management should be started once the disease is diagnosed. It could be fatal within weeks if it was left without treatment. ALL affects both children and adults and slightly more boys than girls.

The reason for development is still unknown. several genetic risk factors have been identified and linked to ALL like Down syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, or neurofibromatosis type. Moreover, it was found the environmental exposure to radiation exposure or prior chemotherapy may be linked to ALL development too.

The excessive immature lymphocytes in the bone marrow interfere with the production of new and healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This will lead to different symptoms including:

1. Swollen lymph nodes
2. Fatigue
3. Unusual gum and nose bleeding
4. Bone and joint pain
5. Easily bruised skin
6. Swollen belly due to liver or spleen enlargement
7. Unintentional
8. Fever
9. Night sweat
10. Development of purple skin rash and patches
11. Pale skin