What is Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)?

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a rare type of cancer that affects the myeloid line of blood cells. AML is characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal cells. This will lead to the accumulation of these abnormal cells in the bone marrow and blood and hence interfere with normal blood cell production. This type of leukemia affects the amyloid line including the production of abnormal myeloblasts, red blood cells, or platelets.

There are several risk factors that are linked to AML like:

1. Other blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) including myelofibrosis, polycythemia vera, and essential thrombocytopenia

2. Chemical exposure like anticancer chemotherapy, in particular alkylating agents.

3. Radiation like exposure to high amounts of ionizing radiation exposure can increase the risk of AML.

4. Genetics

Usually, the symptoms of AML developed in few weeks and it includes:

The symptoms of AML usually develop over a few weeks and become worse over time.

1. Fatigue
2. Short of breath
3. Bleeding and bruising (Gum & Nose)
4. Unexpected weight loss
5. Pale skin color
6. Frequent infections

Currently, there are several FDA-approved medications for AML like Daurismo, Idhifa, Mylotarg, Rydapt, Tibsovo, Venclexta, Vyxeos, and Xospata.