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 remains unknown in great majority of patients. 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. Detailed info about Treatment is available here.
