Drishika Bose

What are the differences between AML and ALL when observed in pediatric vs adult patients?

Started Apr. 7, 2022

Abstract or project description

Leukemia is a type of cancer which affects the body’s blood-forming tissue, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. There are two classifications of acute leukemia, which are acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL). AML refers to myeloid cells which give rise to various blood cells, such as red and white blood cells. ALL refers to a type of leukemia which affects lymphocytes and the lymphatic system. While AML and ALL impact different parts of the body and blood system, they both stem from the bone marrow. Both adults and children are at risk of developing either AML or ALL, but there are significant differences between pediatric leukemia and adult leukemia. The genetic landscape differs greatly between children and adults, and contributes to differences in clinical presentation. This article aims to review and explore the differences between pediatric and adult AML and ALL using published clinical studies.