

Texas Oncology is a leader in groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials in Texas, paving the way for new breakthroughs in cancer care.
Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia treatment is not one size fits all. That is why we personalize your child’s treatment plan based on factors like age, medical history and subtype of leukemia, general health, and response to initial treatment. Treatment for Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is typically conducted in two phases:
This is the initial treatment phase of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The goal is to achieve a complete remission or disappearance of all detectable leukemia cells. This is typically achieved through multi-agent chemotherapy administered over a short period of time.
This treatment is given after a patient has reached remission following initial therapy. It is meant to destroy hidden undetectable leukemia cells that might still exist. This phase may last several months.
Specialized expertise
There are big differences in treating children and adults with cancer, which is why many of our pediatric hematologist-oncologists specialize in treating Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Together, they bring years of experience and extensive knowledge of blood diseases and disorders to each case.
Leading-edge treatments
We offer the same quality care as large academic centers with the convenience of a community setting. As active members of the largest children cancer consortium, called Children’s Oncology Group, our organization is up to date on the latest treatment protocols and options. We offer multidisciplinary care and state-of-art facilities, including an extensive cellular therapy and stem cell transplant program. Additionally, we conduct extensive research and offer multiple active clinical trials for newly diagnosed and relapsed leukemia, giving eligible patients access to treatments before they become widely available.
Customized care planning
Your diagnosis is only part of the picture. We listen to your concerns, honor your choices, and build a care experience that reflects your goals.
Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow that happens when abnormal white blood cells grow uncontrollably. At Texas Oncology, we combine advanced treatments and up-to-date protocols and trials, with compassionate care while utilizing our expertise and network of specialists to deliver tailored treatment plans. Our approach ensures pediatric patients are well supported through all phases of their care.
Despite vast research, the cause of disease is still unknown. However, there are several risk factors that can increase a patient’s risk of developing the disease:
Inherited DNA mutations
Children may inherit DNA mutations from a parent that increases their risk for cancer. The gene changes that cause childhood leukemia are acquired early, sometimes before birth.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors — like radiation exposure, previous chemotherapy, and chemical exposure to pesticides, benzenes, or solvents — has been associated with childhood leukemia. Research suggests that pesticide exposure from home or work during pregnancy is also linked to a higher childhood leukemia risk.
Several signs and symptoms could indicate childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Most symptoms of childhood ALL result from the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, which crowd out healthy cells in the bone marrow — leading to low levels of red blood cells, platelets, and functional white cells. If your child has any of the following symptoms or signs, consider taking them to a pediatrician or hospital to make an appropriate diagnosis, especially if symptoms persist or return.
Texas Oncology pediatric specialists are equipped to diagnose childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia and may use the following tests:
Physical exams — particularly those examining lymph nodes, size of the spleen and liver, and overall health — help detect potential signs and symptoms.
CBC measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It can detect the presence of leukemia cells, abnormal cell counts, and other changes that may be indicative of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
This diagnostic test is done by removing a small sample of liquid and solid components of the bone marrow (the spongy tissue inside the bones).
Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia treatment is not one size fits all. That is why we personalize your child’s treatment plan based on factors like age, medical history and subtype of leukemia, general health, and response to initial treatment. Treatment for Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is typically conducted in two phases:
This is the initial treatment phase of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The goal is to achieve a complete remission or disappearance of all detectable leukemia cells. This is typically achieved through multi-agent chemotherapy administered over a short period of time.
This treatment is given after a patient has reached remission following initial therapy. It is meant to destroy hidden undetectable leukemia cells that might still exist. This phase may last several months.
Specialized expertise
There are big differences in treating children and adults with cancer, which is why many of our pediatric hematologist-oncologists specialize in treating Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Together, they bring years of experience and extensive knowledge of blood diseases and disorders to each case.
Leading-edge treatments
We offer the same quality care as large academic centers with the convenience of a community setting. As active members of the largest children cancer consortium, called Children’s Oncology Group, our organization is up to date on the latest treatment protocols and options. We offer multidisciplinary care and state-of-art facilities, including an extensive cellular therapy and stem cell transplant program. Additionally, we conduct extensive research and offer multiple active clinical trials for newly diagnosed and relapsed leukemia, giving eligible patients access to treatments before they become widely available.
Customized care planning
Your diagnosis is only part of the picture. We listen to your concerns, honor your choices, and build a care experience that reflects your goals.