“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. AML is characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal myeloid cells, which are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections. These abnormal cells accumulate in the bone marrow and interfere with the production of normal blood cells.
AML can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, fever, frequent infections, easy bruising or bleeding, bone pain, and swollen lymph nodes. The diagnosis of AML is made through blood tests and bone marrow biopsy.
Treatment for AML typically involves chemotherapy, which is used to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Other treatments may include radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplantation. The goal of treatment is to destroy as many cancer cells as possible and achieve a remission, which is a period of time when there are no signs of leukemia in the body.
The outlook for people with AML varies depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the genetic characteristics of the cancer cells. With modern treatment, many people with AML are able to achieve remission and live for many years with good quality of life. However, AML can be a serious and life-threatening illness, especially if it is not treated promptly and aggressively.
If you have been diagnosed with AML, it is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop an appropriate treatment plan. They can help you understand your options, manage any side effects of treatment, and provide support throughout your cancer journey.