Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia explained by a USA board-certified hematologist-oncologist. Review your diagnosis and treatment plan in a 1-hour video visit.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) grows quickly and needs prompt treatment. In adults, the plan depends on markers such as the Philadelphia chromosome and on how well the leukemia responds, which is measured by minimal residual disease (MRD) testing. Our hematologist-oncologist reviews your reports in advance, then spends a full hour by video explaining your treatment phases, newer immunotherapies and next steps.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Muhammad Raza Naqvi, MD, USA board-certified hematologist-oncologist.
What is ALL?
ALL is a cancer of immature lymphocytes (lymphoblasts) in the bone marrow. It is the most common cancer in children, but about 4 in 10 cases occur in adults, where it is harder to treat. Most adult ALL is B-cell ALL; a smaller share is T-cell ALL.
Symptoms
Tiredness and pale skin
Fever and frequent infections
Easy bruising or bleeding
Bone or joint pain
Swollen lymph nodes, or a full feeling from an enlarged spleen or liver
Philadelphia-positive vs. Philadelphia-negative ALL
About 1 in 4 adults with ALL has the Philadelphia chromosome (BCR-ABL1). These leukemias are treated with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, such as dasatinib or ponatinib, combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy, which has greatly improved results.
Treatment phases and MRD
Treatment usually has three phases: induction (to reach remission), consolidation and maintenance, lasting about 2 to 3 years in total. Medicine is also given to protect the brain and spinal fluid. Minimal residual disease (MRD) testing detects tiny amounts of leukemia left after treatment and helps decide whether more treatment, such as a transplant, is needed.
Immunotherapy and transplant
Blinatumomab: an immunotherapy that helps T cells attack leukemia; now also used in first-line treatment for many adults.
Inotuzumab ozogamicin: an antibody-drug conjugate for B-cell ALL.
CAR-T cell therapy: for relapsed or resistant B-cell ALL.
Allogeneic stem cell transplant: for high-risk or MRD-positive disease.
How your 1-hour consultation works
Book online and complete a short intake form.
Upload your pathology, scan reports and lab results.
Dr. Naqvi reviews your records before the visit.
Meet by secure video for a full hour and leave with clear next steps and a written summary for your care team.
Frequently asked questions
Is ALL curable in adults?
Yes, many adults are cured, especially younger adults and those who become MRD-negative. Results have improved a lot with newer treatments.
How long does ALL treatment last?
Usually about 2 to 3 years, including maintenance.
What does MRD-negative mean?
No leukemia can be detected by very sensitive tests. It is a strong sign of a good response.
