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Questions and answers

Questions about AML

A diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) needs prompt treatment. Here are short answers to the most common questions.

Last updated: ~1 min read
AML: myeloblasts fill the marrow
Figure 1.AML: myeloblasts fill the marrow

01Short answer

AML is an acute leukemia in which immature cells of the myeloid line (myeloblasts) multiply quickly. It usually affects adults, more often older people. It is diagnosed with blood tests, bone marrow examination and genetic tests. Treatment usually starts with induction chemotherapy, followed by consolidation; in some cases an allogeneic transplant is recommended. Genetic changes (NPM1, FLT3, IDH1/2 and others) affect both the outlook and the choice of targeted drugs.

02Simple explanation

In AML myeloblasts fill the marrow and healthy cells decline.

Because it develops quickly, treatment often starts soon after diagnosis.

03Scientific explanation

AML is divided into subtypes by genetic changes in the WHO and ICC classifications; the ELN risk classification uses genetic results to define favourable, intermediate and adverse groups.

For patients who cannot have intensive treatment, gentler regimens and targeted drugs are available.

04What happens in the body?

Why it starts quickly

AML cells multiply over days and weeks, so the doctor prepares treatment even while some genetic results are pending.

Phases of treatment

Induction aims to reach remission and usually takes place in hospital. Consolidation strengthens the remission. If the risk is high, an allogeneic stem cell transplant is discussed.

The quiet room where induction begins
Figure 2.The quiet room where induction begins

What matters day to day

During treatment neutrophils fall very low. A fever is an emergency. Hand hygiene, food safety and your team’s rules are the most important habits.

The genetic subtypes of AML
Figure 3.The genetic subtypes of AML

05The path in AML

The main steps after diagnosis.

Rapid diagnosis — Blood tests and a marrow examination.1Rapid diagnosisBlood tests and a marrow examination.
Genetic tests — The subtype and risk group are defined.2Genetic testsThe subtype and risk group are defined.
Induction — The first treatment to reach remission.3InductionThe first treatment to reach remission.
Consolidation or transplant — The next stage to keep the remission.4Consolidation or transplantThe next stage to keep the remission.
Know your risk groupGenetics shapes the plan.
Guard against infectionCall straight away if you have a fever.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Why it starts quicklyAML cells multiply over days and weeks, so the doctor prepares treatment even while some genetic results are pending.
Phases of treatmentInduction aims to reach remission and usually takes place in hospital. Consolidation strengthens the remission. If the risk is high, an allogeneic stem cell transplant is discussed.
What matters day to dayDuring treatment neutrophils fall very low. A fever is an emergency. Hand hygiene, food safety and your team’s rules are the most important habits.

07Key terms

Myeloblast
An immature cell of the myeloid line.
Induction
The first phase of treatment, aiming for remission.
ELN risk
A risk grouping based on genetics.

08Key points

  • AML is a fast-developing acute leukemia.
  • Genetics guides treatment.
  • Treatment has induction and consolidation phases.
  • A fever is an emergency.

09Frequently asked questions

How long is the hospital stay in AML?

Induction usually means several weeks in hospital; your team will give the exact time.

Is APL different from AML?

APL is a special form of AML, treated with different medicines and often with good results.

Can older people be treated?

Yes, there are gentler regimens suited to their condition.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. How long is the hospital stay in AML?

  2. Is APL different from AML?

  3. Can older people be treated?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  2. NHS. Acute myeloid leukaemia
  3. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Leukemia
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Chemotherapy to Treat Cancer
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants for Cancer
  6. NHS (UK). Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
  7. NHS (UK). Chronic myeloid leukaemia
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). What Is Cancer?
  9. American Cancer Society. Risk Factors for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
  10. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Talking With Family and Friends
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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