hematology and oncology
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Key Points
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common cancer in children but also occurs in adults. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement is common; most patients receive intrathecal chemotherapy and corticosteroids and sometimes CNS radiation therapy. Response to treatment is good in children, with cure possible in > 80% of children but in < 50% of adults. Repeat induction chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and stem cell transplantation may be helpful for relapse. 