Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML): Patient Education Guide

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

1. 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.

1. Can AML come back after treatment? AML can relapse, so close follow-up is needed. New treatments are available even for relapsed AML.

1. Will I lose my hair during treatment? Chemotherapy can cause hair loss, but hair usually grows back after treatment ends.

1. 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.

1. 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.