Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Acute myeloid leukemia, or AML, is one type of leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that happens when the bone marrow makes an abnormal type of white blood cell called myeloblasts, red blood cells, or platelets. AML is the most common type of acute leukemia in adults. AML most often affects adults over the age of 60, but it can occur at any age.
Explore below to find more about early symptoms, different treatments, side effects and tips on getting through them, as well as impact to quality of life in our in-depth stories spotlighting our incredible AML patients, survivors, thrivers, and care partners.
Common Signs and Symptoms of AML
Early symptoms of AML may resemble those of the flu or other common illnesses. If you or a loved one experiences any of the following, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent infections
- Unexplained bruising or bleeding
- Pale skin or anemia
- Shortness of breath
- Fever or night sweats
How is AML Diagnosed?
Diagnosing AML typically involves a combination of:
- Blood Tests: Reveal abnormal levels of white or red blood cells or platelets.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: Confirms the presence of leukemia cells.
- Genetic and Molecular Testing: Helps classify AML subtypes and guide treatment decisions.
AML Treatment Options
The standard of care for treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML) typically involves two main phases: induction and consolidation.
Induction Phase
The standard induction therapy for AML, especially in younger and fit patients, is the “7+3” regimen:
- 7 days of continuous intravenous cytarabine (ara-C)
- 3 days of an anthracycline drug (daunorubicin or idarubicin)
For older patients or those unfit for intensive chemotherapy, the combination of azacitidine and venetoclax has become a new standard of care.
Consolidation Phase
- After achieving remission, consolidation therapy aims to eliminate remaining cancer cells. Options include:
- High-dose cytarabine (HiDAC), typically given for 3-4 months
- Allogeneic stem cell transplantation for high-risk patients
AML is aggressive, but advancements in treatment offer hope and a range of options, including:
- Chemotherapy: The most common initial treatment.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations in leukemia cells.
- Stem Cell Transplant: May be recommended for eligible patients after initial therapy.
- Clinical Trials: Investigational therapies offering access to cutting-edge treatment.
- Biomarkers
Additional AML Resources:
For more information on AML basics from a leading source, head to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, along with exploring our supporting stories from patients with AML, caregivers, and medical experts.
Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patient Stories
Mackenzie P., Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
Symptoms: Shortness of breath, passing out, getting sick easily, bleeding and bruising quickly
Treatments: Chemotherapy (induction and maintenance chemotherapy), stem cell transplant, clinical trials
Grace M., Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Symptom: Headache that persisted for 1 week
Treatments: Chemotherapy, stem cell transplant
Emily T.
Symptoms: Nosebleeds, fever, chills, small red spots all over the body
Treatment: Chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant
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