Acute eosinophilic leukemia
Acute Eosinophilic Leukemia (AEL) is a rare subtype of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), characterized by the rapid and uncontrolled proliferation of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the bone marrow and blood.
Etiology[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of AEL is unknown. However, it is believed to be associated with genetic abnormalities, such as the rearrangement of the FIP1L1-PDGFRA gene. Other potential risk factors include exposure to certain chemicals and radiation, and a history of blood disorders.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of AEL can vary widely and may include fatigue, fever, weight loss, night sweats, and frequent infections due to a compromised immune system. Some patients may also experience skin rashes, difficulty breathing, and organ damage due to the infiltration of eosinophils.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of AEL is often challenging due to its rarity and nonspecific symptoms. It typically involves a complete blood count, bone marrow biopsy, and cytogenetic analysis to identify any genetic abnormalities. The presence of more than 20% eosinophils in the bone marrow is a key diagnostic criterion.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment options for AEL include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation. The choice of treatment depends on the patient's overall health, age, and the specific genetic abnormalities present.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis of AEL is generally poor, with a median survival of less than two years. However, patients with the FIP1L1-PDGFRA gene rearrangement tend to have a better prognosis and may achieve long-term remission with targeted therapy.
See also[edit | edit source]
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Acute eosinophilic leukemia is a rare disease.
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