Types of Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) is leukemia that affects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. It is not a single disease, but a group of related diseases. In the past, doctors divided ALL into the following three subtypes, based mainly on how the leukemia cells looked under the microscope:
-
L1. Most common in children
-
L2. Most common in adults
-
L3. Most aggressive type; also called Burkitt-type leukemia
Newer lab tests now allow doctors to divide ALL into more specific classifications, based on the type of lymphocyte the disease starts in and how mature the cells are.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Alteri, Richard, MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Grantham, Paula, RN, BSN
Last Review Date:
10/18/2012
© 2013 Krames StayWell, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.