Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is a type of blood cancer that mainly affects children and teenagers. The disease specifically affects cells called lymphoblasts. The cancerous cells multiply and crowd out normal blood cells, negatively impacting immune function.
ALL is the most common form of childhood leukaemia, with around 400 children diagnosed each year in the UK.
Early signs and symptoms of ALL
White blood cells help the body fight infections. When ALL develops, these cells do not work properly, so frequent infections can be an early warning sign.
Other symptoms may include:
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Feeling very tired, pale skin, or shortness of breath (signs of anaemia)
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Bruising or bleeding easily
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Headaches
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Changes in eyesight
ALL is a fast-growing cancer, but with quick diagnosis and effective treatment plans, many patients can recover well.
Specialist care for teenagers with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
At UCLH Private Healthcare, we have a team of experts who specialise in treating ALL. We offer the latest tests, modern treatments, and full support in a space designed especially for teenagers from 13 up to 18 years old.
Whether our patients are waiting for an initial diagnosis or have relapsed, our team is here to provide support at every stage.
Fast and accurate diagnosis
We use a range of tests to diagnose ALL quickly and accurately, so treatment can begin without delay. These tests include:
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Blood tests – to check for abnormal cells
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Bone marrow biopsy – a small sample taken under anaesthetic to examine bone marrow
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Flow cytometry – to detect proteins on cells and confirm leukaemia
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Genetic testing and next-generation sequencing (NGS) – to find genetic changes linked to ALL (this test is only available in a few centres worldwide)
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Lumbar puncture – to check if leukaemia has spread to the fluid around the brain and spine
If some of these tests have already been completed before coming to UCLH, we can quickly transfer these results to our team. If necessary, we can repeat the tests to confirm any diagnosis.
Once we understand how advanced and aggressive the leukaemia is, we will recommend the best treatment plan and begin care as soon as possible.
Monitoring during and after treatment
We continue to monitor the health of our patients during and after treatment to make sure that we are responsive to any changes in their condition.
We offer a molecular test called next-generation sequencing of minimal residual disease (NGS MRD) at the the point of diagnosis which we then review after 28 days to assess the aggressiveness of any remaining cancer cells. Based on the results we can then adjust any treatment to make sure any care we offer is appropriate for our patient at that stage in their cancer journey.
Expert treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
UCLH is known across the UK and internationally for its expertise in treating ALL, especially in teenagers and young adults.
Most patients receive multi-agent chemotherapy, which uses a combination of strong medicines. This may be combined with immunotherapy, which helps the patient’s own immune system fight cancer cells.
Depending on individual needs, patients will either stay on our dedicated teenage and young adult ward at University College Hospital or visit as a day patient at the Macmillan Cancer Centre.
Because treatment can lower the blood count, we closely monitor our patients for infections and other problems. Our team includes expert consultants, specialist nurses, and chemotherapy nurses who are specifically trained to care for ALL patients.
We use a personalised approach to treatment. If a patient responds well to their treatment, we may reduce the intensity of chemotherapy. If the cancer is harder to treat, we may increase it. This ensures that all our patients get the most appropriate treatment for the best chance of recovery.
Our team and approach to care
At UCLH, we are proud of our international reputation for treating ALL and supporting teenage patients.
Our care includes:
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Expert consultants – involved in research and creating national and international treatment guidelines
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Latest treatments – developed through research with University College London
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Advanced diagnostics – including next-generation sequencing, which studies any genetic variation associated with the disease
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Highly specialist teams – bringing together doctors, nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, and youth support workers who work together to create a personalised care plan for each patient .
Patient-centred care
We put our patients and their families at the heart of everything we do.
Our patients are kept informed at every stage and involved in all decisions about their care.
We have a team of interpreters to help with language support. For patients from the Middle East, our Arabic-speaking advocates are available to help patients and their families with translation and guidance.
The emotional and physical wellbeing of our patients is so important. Our team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and counsellors are all available to offer support throughout treatment.
Our inpatient and day-case facilities have been designed by teenagers, for teenagers – to help make hospital visits as comfortable and relaxed as possible.