This archive report was first published on 1 July 2019.
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that originates in the bone marrow, the soft inner part of certain bones where new blood cells are made. It can quickly spread to the blood and other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and testicles.
AML develops from cells that would normally turn into white blood cells, but sometimes it can also develop in other types of blood-forming cells. The exact cause of AML is not fully understood, but certain risk factors have been identified, including age, male gender, smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and previous treatment with chemotherapy drugs.
People with AML often experience a range of non-specific symptoms, including weight loss, fatigue, fever, night sweats, and loss of appetite. As the disease progresses, leukemia cells can spread to other parts of the body, causing a range of symptoms, including lumps or spots on the skin, swelling and pain in the gums, and headaches, weakness, seizures, vomiting, and trouble with balance.
Diagnosing AML typically involves a combination of blood tests, bone marrow tests, lumbar punctures (spinal taps), and genomic testing. If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to AML, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.
