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| Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia Causes And Epidemiology Etiology
A malignant proliferation of immature lymphoblasts
Spontaneous mutation is thought to be the major cause of these proliferations
May be due to chromosome abnormalities (Down syndrome, trisomy 13), chromatin fragility (Fanconi’s anemia, Bloom syndrome, ataxia telangiectasia), chemicals (benzene, smoking), X-ray treatment, or drugs (alkylating agents)
Epidemiology
ALL and AML cause nearly 30% of pediatric malignancies
ALL accounts for 80% of leukemias
Mot common in children; peak incidence is 3 – 4 years of age
More common in males and whites
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