Understanding acute lymphocytic leukaemia

Acute lymphocytic leukaemia (ALL) is a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones, where blood cells are made.

It is also known as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

The word “acute” arises due to the fact that the disease progresses rapidly and creates immature blood cells, rather than mature ones.

The word “lymphocytic” refers to the white blood cells called lymphocytes, which ALL affects.

ALL is the most common type of cancer in children, and treatment results in good chances of recovery.

The condition can also occur in adults, though the chance of cure will be greatly reduced.

Signs and symptoms of ALL may include the following:

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

Many signs and symptoms of ALL are similar to those of flu.

However, flu signs and symptoms eventually disappear.

If signs and symptoms do not improve as expected, the affected individual should make an appointment with his or her doctor.

The article was taken from the Mayo Clinic website www.mayoclinic.org

 

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