Overview
Acute myeloid leukaemia develops quickly and needs urgent treatment. It is more common in older adults but can occur at any age.
Symptoms
- Tiredness, weakness and breathlessness
- Fever and frequent infections
- Easy bruising, nosebleeds or bleeding gums
- Pale skin
- Bone pain
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include older age, smoking, previous chemotherapy or radiation, exposure to benzene, and some blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndrome.
Diagnosis
Blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy confirm the diagnosis. Genetic tests on the leukaemia cells help predict how it will respond and guide treatment.
Treatment
Treatment usually starts with intensive chemotherapy to bring the disease into remission, followed by further chemotherapy or a stem cell transplant. Targeted medicines are used for some genetic types.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly for unexplained tiredness, bruising, bleeding or repeated infections. Seek urgent care for high fever or heavy bleeding.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
