General Information About Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the condition where 'myeloid' series precursor cells (blasts), which are supposed to form red blood cells, platelets, and some white blood cells, undergo genetic mutation, fail to mature, and invade the bone marrow.
AML is an aggressive blood cancer that progresses very rapidly and requires immediate treatment. The cells can quickly enter the bloodstream and spread to other organs.
Paleness, persistent fatigue, stubborn fever, hard-to-stop nose/gum bleeding, red spots on the skin (petechiae), and unexplained weight loss.
Unlike ALL, which is seen in children, AML is an adult leukemia type more commonly encountered in advancing ages (usually 65 years and older).
It is suspected when white blood cells are exceptionally high or very low in blood tests. A definitive diagnosis is made through 'Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy' taken from the pelvic bone.
Standard treatment aims to completely destroy the cancerous blasts in the bone marrow with intensive chemotherapy. If suitable for the patient's genetic profile, targeted drugs or a stem cell transplant are utilized.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
