All about acute lymphocytic leukaemia

with Mudiwa Mundawarara Executive Director Island Hospice and Healthcare

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.

The word “acute” in acute lymphocytic leukaemia comes from the fact that the disease progresses rapidly and creates immature blood cells, rather than mature ones. The word “lymphocytic” in acute lymphocytic leukaemia refers to the white blood cells called lymphocytes.

Acute lymphocytic leukaemia is also known as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.

Acute lymphocytic leukaemia is the most common type of cancer in children, and treatments result in a good chance for a cure. Acute lymphocytic leukaemia can also occur in adults, though the chance of a cure is greatly reduced.

Signs and symptoms of acute lymphocytic leukaemia may include: 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 and weakness, fatigue or a general decrease in energy, among others.

Many signs and symptoms of acute lymphocytic leukaemia mimic those of the flu. However, flu signs and symptoms eventually improve. If signs and symptoms don’t improve as expected, the affected individual should make an appointment with his/her doctor.

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