Acute myeloid leukemia

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(Redirected from Leucocythemia)

Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Other namesAcute myelogenous leukemia, acute nonlymphocytic leukemia
SpecialtyOncology, Hematology
SymptomsFatigue, fever, increased risk of infection, bleeding
ComplicationsAnemia, infection, bleeding, spread to other parts of the body
Usual onsetRapid
TypesM0–M7 (based on the French-American-British (FAB) classification)
CausesGenetic mutations, exposure to radiation, previous chemotherapy, smoking
Risk factorsAge, smoking, previous chemotherapy, genetic disorders
Diagnostic methodBlood tests, bone marrow examination
Differential diagnosisAcute lymphoblastic leukemia, Myelodysplastic syndrome, Aplastic anemia
TreatmentChemotherapy, Bone marrow transplantation, targeted therapy
MedicationCytarabine, anthracyclines
PrognosisVariable; depends on subtype, age, and genetics


Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. AML is characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal white blood cells that accumulate in the bone marrow and interfere with the production of normal blood cells. It is the most common type of acute leukemia in adults.

Signs and Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of AML are caused by the replacement of normal bone marrow with leukemic cells, which leads to a drop in red blood cells, platelets, and normal white blood cells. Common symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Increased risk of infections
  • Bleeding and bruising easily
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pale skin

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of AML is not known, but several risk factors have been identified:

  • Genetic mutations
  • Exposure to radiation
  • Previous chemotherapy treatment
  • Smoking

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

AML involves mutations in the DNA of a cell in the bone marrow. These mutations cause the cell to grow and divide uncontrollably. The accumulation of these abnormal cells, or blasts, in the bone marrow inhibits the ability to produce normal blood cells.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of AML typically involves:

  • Complete blood count (CBC)
  • Bone marrow biopsy
  • Cytogenetic analysis
  • Molecular genetic testing

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for AML can vary based on the characteristics of the leukemia and the overall health of the patient. Common treatments include:

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for AML varies widely depending on several factors, including the subtype of AML, the patient's age, and the genetic abnormalities of the leukemia cells. Some subtypes have a relatively good prognosis, while others are more challenging to treat.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

AML is more common in adults than in children and is slightly more prevalent in men than in women. The incidence increases with age.

See Also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD