AML treatment in kids varies depending on the specific type and characteristics of the leukemia, and the age and general health of the child. Generally, children with AML receive four to six months of chemotherapy and, in some cases, bone marrow or stem cell transplants.
Types of AML Treatment
The main treatments for AML in children are chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and bone marrow or stem cell transplants.
Chemotherapy is the primary treatment for most types of AML in kids. It involves giving drugs that target and destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given orally, by injection, or intravenously. It is often given in cycles, with each cycle lasting several weeks.
Targeted therapies are drugs that target specific molecules on the surface of cancer cells. These drugs can be used in combination with chemotherapy to improve outcomes.
Bone marrow or stem cell transplants are sometimes used in children with AML. In a transplant, the child’s healthy bone marrow or stem cells are replaced with donor cells. Transplants can help to improve outcomes, but they also carry risks.
Length of Treatment
The length of AML treatment in kids varies depending on factors such as the type and characteristics of the leukemia, and the age and general health of the child. Generally, children with AML receive four to six months of chemotherapy. In some cases, a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may be recommended. This can extend the length of treatment by several months.
Side Effects
AML treatment in kids can have a range of side effects, including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection. The side effects of treatment vary depending on the type of treatment. It is important for parents to talk to their child’s doctor about the potential side effects of treatment.