Acute Myelocytic Leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is characterized by the rapid growth and accumulation of abnormal myeloid cells in the bone marrow, which are responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These abnormal cells, often called blasts, disrupt the normal production of healthy blood cells, leading to a deficiency in red blood cells, platelets, and normal white blood cells.
AML is classified as "acute" because the disease progresses rapidly, often within weeks or months, if left untreated. The term "myelocytic" refers to the type of cells affected, specifically the myeloid cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system's defense against infections.
Common symptoms of AML include fatigue, weakness, bruising or bleeding easily, frequent infections, weight loss, and shortness of breath. The exact cause of AML is still unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified, such as exposure to certain chemicals, radiation therapy, certain genetic disorders, previous chemotherapy treatments, and a family history of AML.
Treatment for AML typically involves chemotherapy to kill the abnormal cells and restore the production of healthy blood cells. In some cases, a bone marrow transplant may be necessary to replace the diseased bone marrow with healthy donor cells. Prognosis and survival rates vary depending on factors such as the age of the patient, overall health, and response to treatment. Close monitoring and ongoing medical care are essential for managing the disease and minimizing complications.
