Acute Myelogenous Leukaemia (AML)
Overview
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a fast-growing blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow . In AML, the bone marrow makes too many immature white blood cells called myeloblasts. These abnormal cells crowd out healthy blood cells, making it hard for your body to fight infections, carry oxygen, or stop bleeding. It most commonly affects those aged between 1 and 15 years.AML has several different types, which are important to know because they affect treatment choices and outlook.
Common signs and symptoms
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained fevers
- Night sweats
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Bone or joint pain
- Swollen lymph nodes, liver and spleen
- Pallor
Diagnostic tests and procedures
- Complete blood count (CBC) can reveal abnormalities in blood cell levels indicative of leukemia.
- Peripheral blood smear to look for abnormal cells.
- Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy to check for cancerous cells .
- Further tests like flow cytometry and genetic tests to predict prognosis and choose the best treatment.
- Imaging like X-rays or CT scans.
The Journey of Healing Starts Here
If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of Acute Myelogenous Leukaemia, our expert hematology team is here to help. We provide comprehensive diagnostic services, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support to ensure the best outcomes.
Treatment options
Chemotherapy: The primary treatment for AML, using powerful medications to kill leukemia cells, typically administered in multiple phases.
Targeted therapy: Some patients may benefit from drugs that specifically target genetic abnormalities in their leukemia cells.
Bone marrow transplant (BMT) in certain cases, especially for relapsed or high-risk AML, to replace diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells from a donor.
Supportive care including blood transfusions, antibiotics for infections, and other medications.
Prognosis
AML is serious but treatable. Early diagnosis and expert care can improve outcomes. Generally, younger patients tend to have better outcomes.