Acute myelogenous leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow.
It is the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made. The word "acute" in acute myelogenous leukemia denotes the disease's rapid progression. It's called myelogenous leukemia because it affects a group of white blood cells called the myeloid cells, which normally develop into the various types of mature blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.
Acute myelogenous leukemia is also known as acute myeloid leukemia, acute myeloblastic leukemia, acute granulocytic leukemia and acute nonlymphocytic leukemia.
Symptoms
General signs and symptoms of the early stages of acute myelogenous leukemia may mimic those of the flu or other common diseases.
Signs and symptoms may vary based on the type of blood cell affected.
Signs and symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia include:
- Fever
- Bone pain
- Lethargy and fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Frequent infections
- Easy bruising
- Unusual bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds and bleeding from the gums
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with a doctor if you develop any signs or symptoms that seem unusual or that worry you.
Causes
Acute myelogenous leukemia is caused by damage to the DNA of developing cells in your bone marrow. When this happens, blood cell production goes wrong. The bone marrow produces immature cells that develop into leukemic white blood cells called myeloblasts. These abnormal cells are unable to function properly, and they can build up and crowd out healthy cells.
In most cases, it's not clear what causes the DNA mutations that lead to leukemia.
Risk factors
Factors that may increase your risk of acute myelogenous leukemia include:
- Age. (65+)
- Sex.
- Exposure to radiation.
- Dangerous chemical exposure.
- Smoking.
- Other blood disorders.
- Genetic disorders.
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