Lymphoblastic Lymphoma

Site Last Updated on 1/6/03

Lymphoblastic Lymphoma is an acute (sudden onset) type of leukemia; while it affects children primarily, it is not unheard of for an adult to contract it. The bone marrow is the factory which produces blood cells, and there are three major cell types:

• White Cells (Leukocytes) responsible for fighting infections and foreign tissue.
• Red Cells (Erythrocytes) responsible for carrying oxygen.
• Platelets (Thrombocytopenia) responsible for preventing bruising and bleeding.

Leukemia is defined as a cancer of the white cells. There are many different kinds of white cells, and they can be distinguished either by looking down a microscope or more complicated tests. .The lymphocyte is a white cell which is part of the immune system and helps our bodies with fighting viruses and making antibodies. Leukaemia of the lymphoid cells is called acute lymphoblastic (lymphphatic) leukemia.

I was diagnosed with the T-cell form of this cancer in October, 2002. I am currently undergoing a chemotherapy regimine called G-CSF CALGB 9111. It is my hope that my experiences recorded herein will help other adults with this type of cancer by letting them know what to expect.