Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is treated with combinations of chemotherapy drugs (such as vincristine, corticosteroids, asparaginase, anthracyclines, methotrexate, cytarabine and 6-mercaptopurine) given in structured phases: induction (to achieve remission), consolidation/intensification (to deepen it), and a long maintenance phase. Because leukemia can hide in the brain and spinal fluid, CNS-directed therapy — chemotherapy injected into the spinal fluid (intrathecal) — is part of every protocol. Regimens are risk-adapted: intensity is matched to the leukemia’s genetics and how quickly it responds (minimal residual disease, MRD).
A combination given on a defined schedule — by IV, by mouth, and intrathecally (into the spinal fluid) — over roughly 2–3 years, mostly outpatient after the first intensive phase. A central line or port is usually placed. Care is led by a hematology-oncology team.
Most children reach remission after induction, but treatment continues for years to prevent relapse. MRD testing guides whether therapy is intensified, and long-term follow-up watches for late effects of chemotherapy.