Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a fast-developing blood cancer that affects blood cells called lymphoid blasts. It is usually treated with chemotherapy.
Treatment for ALL is different for older and younger adults. The information in this section is for people aged over 29 years. If you are 29 or under, read our information about treatment for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
What is acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)?
ALL is a fast-developing type of blood cancer that affects cells called lymphoid blasts or lymphoblasts.
I've just been told I have blood cancer
It's never easy to hear the word cancer, but we can support you. If you have just been diagnosed, sign up to our weekly support email.
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) prognosis
Your prognosis (what may happen in the future) depends on things like age, fitness, and the type of ALL you have.
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) symptoms
People with ALL can experience a range of symptoms, including extreme tiredness, bruising or bleeding, weight loss and frequent infections.
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) tests
To diagnose ALL, doctors will run tests on samples of your blood or bone marrow. Sometimes, you may need an X-ray or other scan.
Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) treatment
ALL develops quickly, so fast diagnosis and treatment are important. Treatment for adults over 29 is different from treatment for younger adults and children.
Living well with blood cancer
When you're ready, read our information about living well with and after blood cancer, including stories from people who've been through it themselves.
Our leukaemia research
Filter by "acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)" for news of our research to understand ALL, and find better, kinder treatments for this type of leukaemia.
Thank you to Consultant Haematologists Professor Adele Fielding and Dr Clare Rowntree for checking the clinical accuracy of our ALL information.