Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is an acquired genetic injury that occurs when malignant white blood cells multiply and become overproduced in the bone marrow. When the cells multiply ALL develops and eventually cause the deterioration of the body, potentially leading to death, by spreading to other organs.

This particular form of cancer is most common in children and young adults and the effects can vary depending upon the age of the victim and the time of the diagnosis. Acute lymphocytic leukemia can peak in children between the ages of four and five and another peak was recently discovered in the elderly.

Effects of ALL

ALL can be physically, emotionally, and financially straining on those who are affected by it. Among the most common effects of ALL are an uncontrollable growth and accumulation of cells known as “lymphoblasts” and the prevention of normal cells from being produced, which causes a deficiency of red and white cells from entering the bloodstream.

Symptoms of acute lymphocytic leukemia include:

• The slow healing of cuts and easy bleeding
• Shortness of breath
• Repetition of infections
• Joint pain

Diagnosing the Illness

Since the symptoms of ALL are so general, diagnosing the illness starts by conducting a thorough medical history and physical examination. During the process of a diagnosis the higher the white blood cell count the worse the outcome for the patient.
In 90 percent of cases, blast cells are found through a blood smear and a bone marrow biopsy has also proven to be an effective way of determining whether or not someone has been inflicted with acute lymphocytic leukemia.

If you are experiencing symptoms linked to ALL and are seeking legal guidance, please contact one of our experienced attorneys today. The attorneys at Burke & Eisner specialize in leukemia cases and will ensure that you receive the legal support you need and deserve.

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See Also:

• Aplastic Anemia
• Myleodysplastic Syndromes 

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog