Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Acute Myelogenous Leukemia, known as Acute Myeloid Leukemia, or AML, is a fast-growing cancer that starts in the bone marrow or other blood-forming tissue and spreads into the bloodstream. It is the most common type of leukemia.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat is Acute Myelogenous Leukemia?
AML is a type of cancer in which immature stem cells that normally mature into normal red or white blood cells or platelets, instead develop into a type of abnormal white blood cell that reproduces rapidly and crowds out the desirable blood cells. While most AML patients are adults, with an average patient age over 65, AML is also one of the most common cancers in infants and toddlers. According to the American Cancer Society, 13,290 new cases are expected in 2008.
Dulcinea's Insight
- In adults, AML has been linked to exposure to the chemical benzene. Many Web sites you encounter in search engines profess to provide credible medical information but are sponsored by law firms interested only in finding clients. The Web sites included in this guide are all sponsored by respected health care organizations.
Dulcinea's Picks
For an overview of AML …
Mayo Clinic
offers a brief introduction to acute myelogenous leukemia, and explains the meaning of each portion of the condition’s name.
National Marrow Donor Program
provides a well-written overview of AML, offering a more in-depth description of the types of cells affected and their function.
eMedicine
offers a comprehensive explanatory article about AML, geared towards physicians.
For AML’s signs and symptoms …
Mayo Clinic
lists the symptoms a person with AML can experience, including weight loss, bone pain, fatigue and fever.
AML Diagnosis and Treatment
Acute myelogenous leukemia is treated in a number of ways, and adults are treated differently than ... read more »
Support for Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
A cancer diagnosis, while devastating, should not be isolating. Thousands of people are diagnosed ... read more »
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