Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)

If you’re affected by acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), you may have many questions about how it is diagnosed, treatment options, side effects and how to stay well. You can find trustworthy information about all aspects of your experience below.

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Diagnosis

  • What type of leukaemia do I have?
  • How fast is the leukaemia growing?
  • Are the latest tests and treatments for leukaemia available in this hospital?
  • Will a multidisciplinary team (MDT) be involved in my care?
  • Are there clinical guidelines for this type of leukaemia?

Treatment

  • What treatment do you recommend? What is the aim of the treatment?
  • Are there other treatment choices for me? If not, why not?
  • If I don’t have the treatment, what should I expect?
  • How long do I have to make a decision?
  • I’m thinking of getting a second Can you recommend anyone?
  • How long will treatment take? Will I have to stay in hospital?
  • Are there any out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare or my private health cover? Can the cost be reduced if I can’t afford it?
  • How will we know if the treatment is working?
  • Are there any clinical trials or research studies I could join?

Side effects

  • What are the risks and possible side effects of each treatment?
  • Will I have a lot of pain? What will be done about this?
  • How long will I have to have off work or away from my usual activities?
  • Will the treatment affect my sex life and fertility?
  • Should I change my diet or physical activity during or after treatment?
  • Are there any complementary therapies that might help me?

After treatment

  • How often will I need check-ups after treatment?
  • If the leukaemia returns, how will I know? What treatments could I have?

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