ACUTE MYELOID LEUKAEMIA (AML)

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It is a rapidly progressing disease that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we will delve into the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options available for AML.

AML starts in the bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. It primarily affects myeloid cells, which are responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. In AML, abnormal myeloid cells multiply rapidly, crowding out healthy blood cells. This leads to a decrease in normal blood cell production and can cause a range of symptoms.

Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune system. It occurs when abnormal lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) multiply uncontrollably. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hodgkin lymphoma is characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells, while non-Hodgkin lymphoma encompasses a diverse group of cancers that behave differently and require different treatments. Symptoms of lymphoma may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Treatment for lymphoma typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or stem cell transplantation.

1. Fatigue and weakness
2. Frequent infections
3. Shortness of breath
4. Easy bruising or bleeding
5. Bone pain
6. Unexplained weight loss
7. Fever and night sweats

Treatment for AML often involves a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and, in some cases, stem cell transplantation. The specific treatment plan will depend on factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and the genetic makeup of the leukemia cells. Some common treatment approaches include

1. 1. Chemotherapy: This involves the use of powerful drugs to kill leukemia cells and restore normal blood cell production.
   2. Targeted therapy: Targeted drugs are designed to attack specific abnormalities within the leukemia cells, while causing minimal damage to healthy cells.
   3. Stem cell transplantation: In this procedure, healthy stem cells are transplanted into the patient’s body to replace diseased bone marrow and restore normal blood cell production.