Children’s Wish Foundation International brings joy to children around the world who are diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia and other critical illnesses. From wish fulfillment to hospital enrichment, our programs distract young people from the anxieties of treatment and empower them to face the difficulties ahead. For more information, or to refer a deserving child, visit www.childrenswish.org.
What is Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)?
Leukemia is the most common cancer in children and teens, accounting for almost 1 out of 3 cancers. Most childhood leukemias are Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL).
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) is a fast-growing cancer of a type of white blood cells called lymphoblasts. These cells are usually found in the bone marrow – the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made.
ALL occurs when the body produces a large number of immature lymphoblasts. The cancer cells grow quickly and replace normal cells in the bone marrow. ALL prevents healthy blood cells from being made. Life-threatening symptoms can occur as normal blood counts drop. ALL invades the blood and can spread throughout the body to other organs. However, it does not normally produce tumors as do many types of cancer.
The term “acute” means that the leukemia can progress quickly; without treatment, it can be fatal within a few months. Proper medical care results in a good chance for a cure. ALL can also occur in adults, though the chance of a cure is greatly reduced.
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia is also called Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
What Causes ALL?
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia occurs when a bone marrow cell develops errors in its DNA. The errors tell the cell to continue growing and dividing, when a healthy cell would stop dividing and die. When this happens, blood cell production becomes abnormal. These abnormal cells 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
Previous cancer treatment. Children who’ve had chemotherapy and radiation therapy for other cancers may be at increased risk.
Having a brother or sister with ALL.
Genetic disorders. Some genetic disorders, such as Down Syndrome, are associated with an increased risk.
Exposure to high levels of radiation.
How might this impact your child?
ALL can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which can be vague and not specific to leukemia.
Weakness, fatigue or a general decrease in energy
Pale skin
Bleeding from the gums, frequent or severe nosebleeds
Fever
Frequent infections
Loss of appetite or weight
Bruising for no obvious reason
Bone or joint pain
Shortness of breath
Lumps caused by swollen lymph nodes in and around the neck, underarm, abdomen or groin
Petechiae, tiny red spots or lines in the skin due to low platelet levels
What should I do if I suspect my child has ALL?
Make an appointment with your child’s doctor if you notice any persistent signs and symptoms that concern you. If your doctor suspects Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, you will be referred for further testing to a hematologist, a specialist who treats diseases and conditions of the blood and bone marrow.
Where can I find more information about ALL?
The American Cancer Society
National Cancer Institute
American Childhood Cancer Organization
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions.
References
American Cancer Society
Mayo Clinic
WebMD
Medline Plus
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