Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood cells. It is an aggressive form of cancer that can quickly become life-threatening if not treated. In this article, we will discuss what happens in acute myeloid leukemia, its risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase the risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia. These include:
• Age: AML is more common in adults over the age of 55.
• Exposure to radiation or chemotherapy: These treatments can damage healthy cells in the bone marrow, leading to the development of cancer cells.
• Certain genetic conditions: Certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome, can increase the risk of developing AML.
• Exposure to certain chemicals: Exposure to benzene, a chemical found in gasoline, paints, and other products, can increase the risk of developing AML.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of AML begins with a physical exam, followed by blood tests to check for abnormal levels of white blood cells and platelets. If these tests indicate that AML may be present, a bone marrow biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
The treatment for AML depends on the type of cancer and the patient’s overall health. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplants, and targeted therapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used.
The prognosis for AML depends on the type of cancer, the patient’s age, and the response to treatment. With proper treatment, the outlook can be good. However, AML can recur after treatment.