Acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common malignancy of childhood but is rare in adults. Great strides have been made in the treatment and cure of children with ALL, with 80-90% of pediatric patients being cured with combination chemotherapy. Cure rates for adults and certain subgroups with adverse risk factors are significantly lower. Improved recognition of risk factors such as early response to therapy has led to improved risk classifications and tailored treatment strategies. For patients with poor prognosis, bone marrow transplant may be indicated and new treatment strategies including bidirectional T-cell engagers and cellular therapies are currently in clinical trials.