Leukemia in Children
Leukemia in children is the most common type of pediatric cancer, accounting for nearly one-third of all childhood cancer diagnoses. Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects how the body produces healthy blood cells.
While advances in research have improved outcomes, childhood leukemia remains a serious diagnosis that requires urgent, specialized treatment. CureSearch is focused on accelerating safer, more effective treatments so every child has the best possible chance at a cure
About Childhood Leukemia
Leukemia begins in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. In children with leukemia, the body produces abnormal white blood cells that do not function properly. These cells crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to infection, fatigue and other complications.
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and is different from many adult cancers because it often develops quickly and requires immediate treatment. It is most commonly diagnosed in children between the ages of 2 and 6, though it can occur at any age.
Types of Leukemia in Children
There are several types of leukemia in children, but most cases fall into two main categories:
Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
The most common form of childhood leukemia, affecting immature lymphoid cells that help the body fight infection. ALL typically progresses quickly but often responds well to treatment.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
A less common form of childhood leukemia that affects myeloid cells, which develop into red blood cells, platelets and certain white blood cells. AML can be more difficult to treat and often requires more intensive therapy.
Other Rare Types
- Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)
- Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML)
Symptoms of Leukemia in Children
The symptoms of leukemia in children can be subtle at first and may resemble common illnesses. Because leukemia affects blood cell production, symptoms often relate to low levels of healthy blood cells
Extreme fatigue or weakness.
Frequent infections.
Fever.
Easy bruising or bleeding.
Bone or joint pain.
Pale skin.
Swollen lymph nodes.
Unexplained weight loss.
Shortness of breath.
Some children may also develop a skin rash or small red spots (petechiae) caused by bleeding under the skin.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical care promptly.
Common diagnostic methods include:
These tests help doctors create a personalized treatment plan for each child.
Treatment options may include:
Treatment is often intensive and may last months or years. CureSearch is working to improve treatments so they are both more effective and less harmful to children.
Prognosis for Childhood Leukemia
The childhood leukemia survival rate has improved significantly due to advances in research and treatment.
- Many children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have overall survival rates above 85%.
- Outcomes for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have improved but remain more variable depending on disease characteristics.
However, survival rates do not tell the full story. Some children experience relapse or long-term side effects, making continued research essential.
CureSearch Funding for Pediatric Leukemia Research
CureSearch is dedicated to accelerating progress in pediatric leukemia research by:
- Funding innovative, targeted research projects
- Supporting therapies designed specifically for children
- Advancing treatments that are safer and more effective
- Speeding up the timeline from discovery to clinical trials
Children are not just small adults—their cancers are different and require specialized research. Every breakthrough brings us closer to better treatments and cures.
Help Drive Breakthroughs for Children with Leukemia
Children with cancer cannot wait. Your support helps fund critical research and bring safer treatments to kids faster
