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Overview
What is Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML)?
- AML is a type of cancer that starts in the bone marrow, where new blood cells are made.
- It causes the bone marrow to produce abnormal white blood cells called myeloblasts, which crowd out healthy blood cells.
Who is affected?
- AML can occur at any age but is most common in adults over 60.
- It is rare in children.
Causes and Risk Factors
Why does it happen?
- AML develops when DNA in the bone marrow cells changes (mutates), leading to uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.
Are certain people more at risk?
- Older adults
- People exposed to high doses of radiation or certain chemicals (like benzene)
- Previous chemotherapy or radiation treatment for another cancer
- Some genetic disorders (e.g., Down syndrome)
- Having other blood disorders (like myelodysplasia)
Symptoms
What are the common signs and symptoms?
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Frequent infections or fevers
- Easy bruising or bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, bleeding gums, small red spots on the skin)
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Bone or joint pain
- Swollen gums (less common)
Diagnosis
How is it diagnosed?
- A doctor will start with a physical exam and blood tests if AML is suspected.
What tests are commonly done?
- Full blood count (FBC): Checks levels of red and white blood cells and platelets
- Blood smear: Looks at blood cells under a microscope
- Bone marrow biopsy: Confirms the diagnosis by examining bone marrow cells
- Genetic and molecular tests: Find specific mutations that can guide treatment
- Other tests: Chest X-rays, lumbar puncture (rare), or scans if needed
Treatment Options
What are the treatment choices?
- Chemotherapy: Main treatment; uses strong medicines to kill leukaemia cells
- Targeted therapy: For certain genetic mutations (e.g., FLT3 inhibitors)
- Stem cell transplant (bone marrow transplant): Replaces diseased bone marrow with healthy cells, suitable for some patients
- Supportive care: Blood transfusions, antibiotics, and other treatments to manage symptoms
Are there any advanced or investigational therapies?
- Newer targeted drugs, immunotherapy, and clinical trials are available in some centres. Ask your doctor about eligibility.
Dietary Advice
Specific dietary recommendations:
- Eat a balanced diet with enough calories, protein, fruits, and vegetables to support recovery.
- If you have a low white blood cell count, follow a “neutropenic diet” (avoid raw/undercooked foods to reduce infection risk).
Nutrition tips to support treatment or symptom control:
- Eat small, frequent meals if you have poor appetite or nausea
- Stay hydrated (plenty of fluids)
- Manage mouth sores with soft, non-acidic foods
Common supplements (if applicable):
- Do not take supplements without consulting your doctor – some can interfere with treatment
Food safety or drug-food interactions:
- Wash fruits/vegetables thoroughly
- Avoid unpasteurized dairy, raw eggs, sushi, or undercooked meats
- Some medications may interact with grapefruit or herbal supplements – always check with your doctor or pharmacist
Living with the Condition
Managing daily activities:
- Rest when you need to, but try to stay as active as possible
- Accept help from family and friends
Exercise, lifestyle, and emotional well-being:
- Light activities (walking, stretching) are often helpful
- Support groups, counselling, or talking with others living with AML can provide emotional support
- Take care of your mental health; don’t hesitate to seek help if feeling overwhelmed
Tips for long-term monitoring and follow-up:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Monitor for new or worsening symptoms and inform your healthcare team
- Stay updated on vaccinations (ask your doctor about flu or pneumonia vaccines)
FAQs
- Is AML curable?
- Many people can achieve remission with treatment, but cure rates depend on age, general health, and specific genetic factors. Your doctor can discuss your individual outlook.
- Can AML come back after treatment?
- AML can relapse, so close follow-up is needed. New treatments are available even for relapsed AML.
- Will I lose my hair during treatment?
- Chemotherapy can cause hair loss, but hair usually grows back after treatment ends.
- Can I go back to work or school?
- This depends on your health and treatment plan. Some people can return part-time during or after treatment.
- Should my family be tested for AML?
- Most cases are not inherited, but some rare genetic forms exist. Your doctor can advise if family screening is needed.
Call to Action
When to contact a doctor:
- If you have fever, bleeding, new bruising, severe tiredness, shortness of breath, or any symptoms that worry you
Other Information Resources
This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider.