Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, also known as acute lymphocytic leukemia or ALL, is a type of cancer that is really a group of related diseases. The specific subtype of leukemia that a patient has determines the types of treatment given, and the prognosis outlook. Use this Web guide to learn more about ALL, including diagnosis and treatment options, and where to find support.
What is Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia?
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that starts when too many white blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. It affects a person’s blood and can spread to the lymph nodes, spleen and other organs. ALL is expected to account for about 5,400 of the 44,000 new cases of leukemia that will be diagnosed in 2008; a majority of ALL cases occur in children. Learn more about ALL, and its signs and symptoms, with the helpful Web sites below.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is often known as ALL online.
- If you conduct Web research on ALL beyond this guide, be aware that many sites profess to provide credible medical information but are sponsored by law firms interested only in finding clients. The Web sites listed in this guide are all sponsored by respected health care organizations or are sites created by patients based on their own experiences.
Dulcinea's Picks
For an overview …
New York Presbyterian Hospital
provides a brief overview of ALL, touching on who is most affected, the disease’s symptoms and treatment.
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
, a world-renowned research facility that pioneered bone marrow transplantation, describes acute lymphoblastic leukemia, details who is at risk and shares some of the Center’s ALL research initiatives.
For signs and symptoms …
MedlinePlus
, part of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, lists common symptoms of acute lymphocytic leukemia. Most of the symptoms are hyperlinked so you can learn more.
For ALL symptoms in children …
Cleveland Clinic
has a comprehensive overview of childhood ALL, including a list of symptoms, which can differ somewhat from adults.
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Diagnosis and Treatment
ALL, depending on how it has progressed, can be treated in a number of ways. In adults, a two-stage ... read more »
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Support
The Web is a great place to connect with others who have been touched by ALL. Sharing stories and ... read more »






