Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL) Treatment in Noida, Delhi Ncr, India

At Metro Hospitals, Noida, Faridabad, Delhi, we offer comprehensive care for Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL). Our expert team, including highly qualified haematologists, oncologists, and support staff, provides personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs. We use advanced treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies, staying at the forefront of medical innovation. Our commitment extends beyond medical treatment to include compassionate support throughout the entire journey.

What is Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL)?

Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia (ALL) is a type of blood cancer characterized by the rapid growth of immature lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, in the bone marrow. This condition can occur at any age, though it is more frequently diagnosed in children. The disease progresses quickly and can spread to other parts of the body, including the liver, spleen, brain, and lymph nodes.

Types of Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia

ALL is categorized based on the type of lymphocytes involved and genetic characteristics:

• B-cell ALL (B-ALL): Originates from immature B lymphocytes.
• T-cell ALL (T-ALL): Arises from immature T lymphocytes. Subtypes within these categories help guide treatment decisions and prognosis.

Causes of Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia

The exact cause of ALL remains unclear, though it involves mutations in the DNA of bone marrow cells. These mutations lead to the uncontrolled production of immature lymphocytes, disrupting normal blood cell production and function.

Symptoms of Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia

Common symptoms of ALL include:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Pale skin and frequent infections
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Petechiae are tiny red or purple spots on the skin caused by bleeding under the surface.
• under the surface.
• Bone and joint pain
• Swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen
• Headaches and vision changes
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Difficulty breathing and abdominal pain

Diagnosis of Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia

Diagnosing ALL involves several steps:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Initial assessment of symptoms and physical signs.
• Blood Tests: A Complete Blood Count (CBC) to identify any irregularities in blood cell levels.
• Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy: Sampling of bone marrow to identify leukaemia cells.
• Cytogenetic Analysis: Examining chromosomes for abnormalities.
• Immunophenotyping: Identifying the type of lymphocytes involved.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): Testing cerebrospinal fluid for leukaemia cells if necessary.

Treatment for Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia

Treatment typically follows four phases:

1. Induction Therapy: Initial phase to kill most leukaemia cells.
2. Consolidation Therapy: Intensive chemotherapy to destroy remaining cells.
3. Maintenance Therapy: Ongoing treatment to prevent relapse.
4. Additional Treatments:
   1. Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells in the central nervous system.
   1. Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific cancer cell abnormalities.
   1. Chemotherapy: Commonly used to kill cancer cells.
   1. Bone Marrow Transplant: Replaces cancerous marrow with healthy stem cells.
   1. Immunotherapy: Enhances the immune system to fight cancer.
   1. Clinical Trials: Access to new treatments and therapies.

Prevention of Acute Lymphocytic Leukaemia

There is no known way to prevent ALL due to the unclear causes of genetic mutations.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the survival rate for ALL? Approximately 90% achieve remission, with around 40% enjoying long-term survival. Early complications can affect 5% of patients.
• Can ALL recur? Yes, recurrence is possible; regular follow-ups are essential.
• How does ALL affect mental health? Emotional support services are available to help manage stress and psychological impact.
• Are there dietary recommendations? A balanced diet is important; patients on chemotherapy may follow a neutropenic diet to avoid infection.
• What are the long-term effects of treatment? Potential long-term effects include impacts on fertility, organ function, and risk of secondary cancers.
• Does ALL affect children differently? Treatment protocols and outcomes may vary for children compared to adults.
• Can genetic factors play a role? Genetic factors may contribute to ALL; genetic counseling might be recommended.
• How does research impact treatment? Ongoing research leads to new therapies and improved outcomes. Clinical trials may offer innovative options.
• What supportive care is available? Support includes managing side effects, emotional well-being, and addressing logistical challenges.
• Can ALL impact fertility? Yes, some treatments may affect fertility; options for preservation should be discussed with the healthcare team.

Review

Reviewed By Dr. Sumant Gupta, Director – Metro Cancer Institute, Faridabad and Dr. Praveen Kumar Bansal, Director – Oncology Services on 25 July 2024.