Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (C-ALL): A type of cancer of the bone marrow that produces immature lymphocytes (a type of blood cell) in the bloodstream. This is the most common type of cancer in children and progresses quickly if not treated. Symptoms can include easy bruising, fever, weakness, bone or joint pain, loss of appetite, and painless enlargement of the lymph nodes. Past treatment for cancer and certain genetic conditions (including Fanconi anemia, Down syndrome, and ataxia-telangiectasia) affect the risk of having childhood ALL.
The exact cause of C-ALL is poorly understood. Also known as childhood acute lymphocytic leukemia.