Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood and is considered a very serious and aggressive form of leukemia. The main cause of death in AML patients is the spread of the cancer to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, and brain.
Risk Factors
Patients with AML are at an increased risk of death if they are older, have other medical conditions, or have been exposed to radiation or toxic chemicals. Other risk factors for death from AML include a low white blood cell count, a high lactate dehydrogenase level, a low hemoglobin level, a low platelet count, and a high blast count.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for AML typically involves chemotherapy, radiation, and/or bone marrow transplant. The goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms and halt the spread of the cancer. Additionally, patients can take steps to prevent the spread of the cancer by avoiding exposure to radiation or toxic chemicals, not smoking, and keeping up with regular check-ups and screenings.
Complications
Patients with AML may experience a number of complications, such as infections, bleeding, organ damage, and anemia. These complications may lead to death if left untreated. Additionally, the cancer may spread to other organs, such as the lungs, liver, and brain, which can lead to death.
Conclusion
Death in AML patients is typically caused by the spread of the cancer to other parts of the body, as well as complications such as infection, bleeding, and organ damage. Patients can take steps to prevent the spread of the cancer and reduce their risk of death, such as avoiding exposure to radiation or toxic chemicals, not smoking, and keeping up with regular check-ups and screenings.