Ailments & Conditions

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Children – Risk Factors, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and More

Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in Children

Several factors may increase the risk of developing this disease. These include:

– Gene mutations or chromosomal changes

– Genetic disorders, such as Klinefelter syndrome or Down syndrome

– Prenatal exposure to X-rays

– Direct exposure to benzene and other toxins

– Exposure to cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy [3]

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia may affect all forms of blood cells, including platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells. This affects the immune system and leads to the some signs and symptoms, including:

– Pale skin

– Weakness and fatigue

– Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

– Easily bleeding or bruising

– Frequent infections due to weakened immune systems

– Night sweats

– Fever

– Tenderness in the upper abdomen caused by enlarged spleen or liver

– Swollen, painless lymph nodes in the groin, armpits, and nick

– Joint and bone pain, particularly in the long bones

– Red skin patches

– Reduced appetite and unexpected weight loss [4]