Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Each year 5,000 to 6,000 new cases of AML are diagnosed in the United States. This illness originates in Myeloid cells of the bone marrow. Normally, upon diagnosis, bone marrow is completely replaced by leukemic cells. This disease responds well to treatment and is curable in both children and adults. AML may happen at any age.

Cause:

The cause of this illness is unknown; however, exposure to radiation, certain pesticides, some chemotherapy or non-chemotherapy drugs may induce AML.

Signs and symptoms

The most significant manifestations are due to failure of bone marrow to produce normal blood cells. Hence, we find anemia, low white blood cells and low platelet counts. The most common symptoms include:

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• Paleness

• Bleeding

• Fever and infection

• Bone pain in arms, legs or back

Diagnosis

A simple blood count may be performed to establish the diagnosis. Leukemia cells can be seen and recognized under microscope. (Click here to see a Leukemia Cell) A bone marrow test should also be performed. Since most patients are very ill at the time of diagnosis, other tests and procedures, blood tests, chest x-ray, etc., may be indicated.

Classification

The nature of AML and its prognosis varies from patient to patient. The disease can be classified as M1 to M7, which are different variants of the illness.

Treatment

Chemotherapy has significantly changed the outcome of these patients. AML is curable in 50 to 60% of cases. It is critical that this disease be managed by a well experienced Oncologist or Hematologist with a good insight into this illness.

Please go to AML Chemotherapy.