acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Also written as: ALL — acute lymphoblastic leukemia
The most common form of childhood leukemia, characterized by overproduction of immature white blood cells.
Full Definition
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a rapidly progressing cancer affecting lymphoid cells in the bone marrow and blood, representing approximately 80% of childhood leukemia cases. The disease involves uncontrolled proliferation of lymphoblasts (immature lymphocytes) that crowd out normal blood cells. ALL has several subtypes based on cell lineage (B-cell or T-cell) and genetic characteristics, which influence treatment protocols and prognosis.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out on first use, then use ALL abbreviation. Distinguish from AML (acute myeloid leukemia) in editorial contexts.
In Context
- "The patient was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia following bone marrow biopsy." — Clinical case report
- "ALL protocols have significantly improved survival rates in pediatric patients over the past three decades." — Medical journal article