Overview
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a type of blood and bone marrow cancer that progresses rapidly. It affects a group of white blood cells called myeloid cells, which normally develop into the various types of mature blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The disease is characterized by mutations in the genetic material or DNA of bone marrow cells, causing them to continue growing and dividing abnormally. Symptoms of AML may resemble those of the flu or other common diseases, including fever, bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and pale skin.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) include fever, bone pain, lethargy and fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, frequent infections, easy bruising, and unusual bleeding such as frequent nosebleeds and bleeding from the gums.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) include increasing age, being male, and previous cancer treatment with certain types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Development
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, which progresses rapidly. It affects myeloid cells, a group of white blood cells that normally mature into different types of blood cells such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. The DNA mutations that lead to AML cause the myeloid cells to become abnormal and unable to function properly. As a result, they can build up and crowd out healthy cells. The exact cause of these DNA mutations is not clear, but doctors have identified certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing AML. These risk factors include increasing age (AML is most common in adults over 65), being male, and previous cancer treatment with certain types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Additionally, some people with another blood disorder called myelofibrosis have a greater risk of developing AML.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you develop any signs or symptoms that seem unusual or that worry you, specifically if you suspect acute myelogenous leukemia. Signs and symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia include fever, bone pain, lethargy and fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, frequent infections, easy bruising, and unusual bleeding such as frequent nosebleeds and bleeding from the gums. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your concerns and receive appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis
To diagnose acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), your doctor may recommend diagnostic tests, including blood tests to check for an abnormal number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. A bone marrow test, such as a bone marrow biopsy, is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis. During the test, a needle is used to remove a sample of bone marrow from the hipbone, which is then sent to a laboratory for testing to look for leukemia cells.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) can include:
- Infections: People with AML have a higher risk of developing infections due to their weakened immune system.
- Anemia: AML can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia and fatigue.
- Bleeding: As the disease progresses, patients may experience abnormal bleeding due to low platelet counts and impaired platelet function.
- Tumor formation: AML can cause the formation of blood cells outside the bone marrow, leading to the development of clumps or tumors in other parts of the body, which can cause complications such as bleeding, compression of the spinal cord, or seizures.
- Spinal cord compression: AML can cause the accumulation of tumors in the spinal cord, leading to compression and potential paralysis.
- Leukostasis: An overabundance of white blood cells in the bloodstream can lead to a condition called leukostasis, where these cells obstruct the blood vessels and impair normal blood flow to organs. It is important to discuss these potential complications with a healthcare professional for proper monitoring and management during treatment.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment and management of acute myelogenous leukemia.
Treatment
Treatment for acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) depends on several factors, including the subtype of the disease, age, overall health, and patient preferences. Treatment typically consists of two phases:
- Remission induction therapy: The aim of the first phase is to kill leukemia cells in the blood and bone marrow. Chemotherapy is the main form of remission induction therapy, but targeted therapy may also be used. If the first cycle of chemotherapy doesn't cause remission, it can be repeated.
- Consolidation therapy (post-remission therapy or maintenance therapy): The purpose of this phase is to destroy remaining leukemia cells and decrease the risk of relapse. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy may be used in combination. It's essential to discuss treatment options with your doctor, as they will take into account your overall health and goals when developing a treatment plan. Some people may choose to focus on treatments that improve their symptoms and quality of life, rather than attempting to cure the cancer. No alternative treatments have been proven to cure AML, but some alternative therapies may help ease the side effects of cancer treatment and make patients more comfortable. Always consult with your doctor before pursuing any alternative treatments, as they may interfere with cancer treatments like chemotherapy.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), follow these steps:
- Gather your medical history: Write down key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.
- List your medications: Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements that you're taking.
- Take a support person: Consider taking a family member or friend along to the appointment. They can help remember important information and provide emotional support.
- Prepare a list of questions: Write down questions to ask your healthcare provider, prioritizing them from most important to least important. Some basic questions to ask include:
- What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
- What are other possible causes for my symptoms or condition?
- What kinds of tests do I need?
- What is the best course of action?
- What are the alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
- How will treatment affect my daily life?
- Are there any restrictions that I need to follow?
- Should I seek a second opinion? What will that cost, and will my insurance cover it?
- Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
- Are there brochures or other printed material that I can take with me? What websites do you recommend?
- Inform your healthcare provider about CaringBridge: Set up a free, personalized webpage at the nonprofit website CaringBridge to help your family and friends understand your situation. This can help you share updates on appointments, treatments, setbacks, and reasons to celebrate without the stress of calling everyone every time there's something new to report. Preparing for your appointment can help you make the most of your time with your healthcare provider. Remember to be open and honest about your concerns and ask any questions you may have.