DEFINITION: AML (ACUTE MYELOID LEUKEMIA) (AML) is a type of blood cancer.

It starts in your bone

marrow, the soft inner parts of bones. AML usually begins in cells that turn into white blood cells, but it
can start in other blood-forming cells, as well. With acute types of leukemia such as AML, bone marrow
cells don't grow the way they're supposed to. These immature cells, called blasts, build up in your body.

HISTORY:

CAUSE/ ETIOLOGY:

S/SX:

Signs and symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia include:

Fever.

Bone pain.

Lethargy and fatigue.

Shortness of breath.

Pale skin.

Frequent infections.

Easy bruising.

Unusual bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds and bleeding from the gums.

DIAGNOSTIC:

Blood tests- Most people with acute myelogenous leukemia have too many white blood cells, not
enough red blood cells and not enough platelets.

Bone marrow test - A blood test can suggest leukemia, but it usually takes a bone marrow test to
confirm the diagnosis.

Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)- In some cases, it may be necessary to remove some of the fluid around
your spinal cord to check for leukemia cells. Genomic testing-

Laboratory tests of your leukemia cells can identify specific genes, chromosome changes, and other
issues unique to your leukemia, as well as to find genetic changes or mutations.
MANAGEMENT: Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Treatment & Management Approach Considerations

Treatment options for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) comprise a variety of chemotherapy regimens,
biologic agents, and stem cell transplantation. [40, 41] Treatment recommendations include general
recommendations, which take into account patient age and performance status, as well as
recommendations for relapsed or refractory disease and acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). See also
Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment Protocols.

Current standard chemotherapy regimens cure only a minority of patients with AML. As a result, all
patients should be evaluated for entry into well-designed clinical trials. If a clinical trial is not available,
the patient can be treated with standard therapy. For consolidation chemotherapy or for the
management of toxic effects of chemotherapy, readmission is required.

Treatment Protocols

Treatment protocols for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are provided below, including a general
treatment approach and treatment recommendations for relapsed or refractory disease. [1]

General treatment approach for acute myeloid leukemia

Fit patients (< 60-65 years, select patients up to age 75 y) receive intensive therapy. Treatment includes
induction therapy and postremission therapy (consolidation). Non–low-risk patients are evaluated for
stem cell transplantation in first remission.

COMPLICATION: