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Childhood Leukemia

Definition

Childhood Leukemia - Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the type of leukemia that most often occurs in children, usually manifesting between the ages of two and 10. Sometimes described as blood cancer, it affects the white blood cells which help the body combat infection. In ALL, immature white blood cells divide uncontrollably, accumulating in the bloodstream, bone marrow and lymph system. This invasion of abnormal cells interferes with the production and function of the healthy blood cells making the person with leukemia highly susceptible to infections with little or no defense.

Getting Diagnosed / Treatment

ALL is is treated in the Pediatric Hematology Oncology Clinic.

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What are the symptoms of ALL?

The symptoms of ALL usually appear suddenly and include fatigue, fever, bone pain, easy bruising and bleeding, weakness and irritability. The lymph nodes, spleen and liver may become swollen and affected children commonly lose their appetite.

How is ALL diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis of ALL involves testing of the blood and bone marrow. Immediately after the diagnosis is confirmed, children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia must receive intensive treatment with anticancer drugs. ALL is the most curable form of leukemia, and during remission, most children return to a state of good health with 75-80% showing no evidence of leukemia 5 years after diagnosis.

How can I get more information about ALL?

The Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Michigan has a clinic devoted to pediatric cancer patients in which experts from several fields work together to explain treatment options and provide the optimum evaluation, treatment planning and care for each patient.

Still have questions? Call our Cancer AnswerLine at 1-800-865-1125 or E-mail a nurse.

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University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
1500 East Medical Center Drive
Ann Arbor, MI 48109

This site is part of the U-M Health System. The information presented is not a tool for self diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. © 2008 U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center