Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Why choose us for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) care?
ALL is a common form of childhood leukemia, but it can also occur in adults. Mays Cancer Center, home to UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, is one of the few programs in South Texas that treats patients of all ages for ALL.
Our expertise, along with our active role in research, provides excellent care for:
- Younger patients: Young ALL patients receive services from board-certified doctors (oncologists) who have specialized training in both pediatrics and oncology. We understand the unique needs of children, adolescents and young adults with leukemia, so you receive the right therapies for your situation.
- Adults: Board-certified oncologists, some of whom have decades of experience, treat adults with ALL. Our expertise includes diagnostic procedures, inpatient care and evaluations for advanced therapies, such as stem cell transplants.
ALL is one of the many blood cancers we treat. Find out more about our hematology oncology program.
What you need to know about acute lymphoblastic leukemia
- Leukemia is cancer that affects your bone marrow, the cells and tissue responsible for blood cell development. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is one of four main types of leukemia.
- ALL affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cells in the immune system. Healthy lymphocytes help the body fight infections. With ALL, abnormal lymphocytes multiply rapidly, making it harder for the immune system to do its job.
- Adults with certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome, have a higher risk of ALL. Other adult risk factors include exposure to radiation and certain chemicals.