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Myeloid Leukemia Cancer

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Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cancer (AML)
AML is the second-most common form of leukemia in children, after acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). AML is primarily a cancer of the bone marrow and lymph nodes. Also called acute nonlymphocytic leukemia or acute myeloid leukemia, it can affect both children and adults.
The term “acute” refers to the tendency of this disease to progress rapidly. The second term in its name — myelogenous — distinguishes it from a disorder of the lymphocytes. In AML, as in other leukemias, it is the bone marrow that malfunctions as a result of disease. Normally, the bone marrow regulates production of different kinds of cells vital to proper function.But in AML, the regulatory mechanisms go awry and the bone marrow starts producing too many immature and abnormal cells called blasts. These blasts circulate throughout the bloodstream and lymph system where they disrupt normal function of organs.Because this disease progresses so rapidly, it is imperative that aggressive treatment at a multidisciplinary medical center begin as soon as possible. Untreated, …show more content…

Your doctor will examine the blood under a microscope for a complete blood count to assess the number of cells and determine their types and maturity levels.
Bone marrow biopsy: If results of the blood test are not normal, bone marrow may be examined. It is extracted through a thin needle inserted into the hip, after first numbing the area with an injection. The marrow will be examined under the microscope to examine abnormal cells.
Chromosomal analysis: This test is done on the leukemia cells to further characterize the AML.
Spinal tap: This is done in all cases to assess whether the disease has spread to the central nervous system. A small needle is placed between the large bones of the backbone to sample the spinal fluid for

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