B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL)
This information is about adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL).
B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) is a fast-growing type of blood cancer, that affects a type of white blood cell called a lymphoid blast.
We have separate information on childhood ALL.
We are currently working on information about adult T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL).
What is B-ALL?
B-ALL is a type of blood cancer that affects a type white blood cell called a lymphoid blast. It usually starts because of random changes in the lymphoid blasts, which happen just by chance.
B-ALL symptoms and tests
Learn the common symptoms of B-ALL and find out about the tests and scans often used to diagnose it.
Finding out you have B-ALL
Being diagnosed with blood cancer, or hearing that a loved one has been, can be an overwhelming and shocking experience. Learn what to expect over the next few days and weeks.
Prognosis for B-ALL
Your prognosis (what may happen in the future) depends on things like age, fitness, and the type of ALL you have.
Treatment for B-ALL
Read how treatment for B-ALL is planned, and what B-ALL treatment can involve.
Living well with B-ALL
When you're ready, read our information about living well with and after blood cancer, including stories from people who've been through it themselves.
This information has been accredited with the PIF TICK, the UK's only quality mark for trusted health information.
Last full review June 2026. Next full review due June 2029. We may make factual updates between reviews.
Thank you to Consultant Haematologists Professor Adele Fielding and Dr Clare Rowntree for checking the clinical accuracy of our adult B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) information.
Thank you also to Karis, Ricky, Binu, Harry, Keri and Jesús for sharing their experiences and for helping with the creation of this information.