Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML): An Overview
Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, characterised by the rapid growth of abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells accumulate in the bone marrow and interfere with the production of normal blood cells.
Illness and Conditions
AML is a hematologic malignancy primarily impacting the myeloid line of blood cells, which normally develop into various types of mature blood cells such as red blood cells, platelets, and certain white blood cells. The disease progresses quickly and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms
Symptoms of AML can develop rapidly and often include:
- Fatigue and weakness due to anaemia
- Frequent infections caused by low levels of healthy white blood cells
- Easy bruising or bleeding, including nosebleeds and bleeding gums
- Petechiae (small red spots on the skin)
- Bone or joint pain
- Swelling of the gums
- Fever and night sweats
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
Causes
The exact cause of AML is not always clear, but certain factors may increase the risk, including:
- Genetic mutations in blood-forming cells
- Exposure to high levels of radiation or chemotherapy
- Exposure to certain chemicals such as benzene
- Smoking
- Previous blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndrome
- Family history of leukaemia or other cancers
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of AML involves several steps:
- Complete blood count (CBC) to detect abnormal levels of blood cells
- Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration to examine the marrow for leukemic cells
- Cytogenetic and molecular testing to identify specific genetic mutations
- Imaging tests if needed to check for spread or involvement of other organs
Treatment
Treatment for AML depends on various factors, including the subtype of AML, the patient’s age, and overall health. Common treatments include:
- Chemotherapy to kill leukaemia cells
- Targeted therapy aimed at specific genetic mutations in cancer cells
- Stem cell transplant (bone marrow transplant) to replace diseased bone marrow with healthy marrow
- Supportive care, such as blood transfusions and antibiotics, to manage symptoms and complications
Prevention
While AML cannot always be prevented, certain measures may reduce risk:
- Avoiding exposure to known risk factors like benzene and radiation
- Quitting smoking
- Regular medical check-ups if there is a family history or previous blood disorders
- Prompt treatment of predisposing conditions
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving outcomes in AML. If symptoms suggestive of leukaemia appear, seeking medical advice promptly is essential.