What are the complications of ALL?

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What are the complications of ALL?

If acute lymphocytic leukemia spreads to other organs, such as the brain and spine, it can lead to:

  • Balance problems.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Facial muscle weakness or numbness.
  • Headaches.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Seizures.

A certain type of T-cell ALL affects the thymus, a small gland in the upper front of your chest, near your neck. It can cause the thymus gland to swell, so you may see a bulge under the skin of your chest. If the gland gets too big, it can press on your windpipe and make you cough or make breathing difficult. The thymus can also press on a large vein called the superior vena cava (SVC). This can cause SVC syndrome when blood can't pass through your vein toward your heart and backs up. This causes swelling of your face and upper extremities.

SVC syndrome is an emergency. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms:

  • Bluish-red colored skin in the head and neck area.
  • Change in your mental state or confusion.
  • Dizziness.
  • Edema (swelling) in the face, neck, arms and upper chest.
  • Headaches.
  • Blurred vision.

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