Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a type of cancer that causes the body to make too many white blood cells (lymphocytes). But these lymphocytes, called leukemia cells, cannot fight infection very well.
When leukemia cells build up in the blood and bone marrow, there is less room for healthy blood cells. This can cause infections, anemia, and easy bleeding.
ALL usually gets worse quickly. It is sometimes referred to as acute lymphocytic leukemia.
Current as of: May 4, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Brian Leber MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology & William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine