Acute myeloid leukemia (AML): Symptoms, signs

Acute myeloid leukemia is a blood cancer that occurs when the production of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets is disrupted. Unlike chronic leukemia, AML develops quickly and needs to be treated as soon as possible.

The cause of acute myeloid leukemia is damage to the DNA of developing cells in the bone marrow. At that time, the production of blood cells will not be the same as normal, the bone marrow will produce immature cells and these cells will develop into malignant cells, also known as "blood cells". young” (myeloblasts). These abnormal cells are overproduced, accumulate and overwhelm the normal functioning of healthy blood cells.
Currently it is not clear what causes DNA to mutate and lead to AML. But according to doctors, certain factors such as radiation, exposure to certain chemicals and certain chemotherapy drugs are factors that increase the risk of acute myeloid leukemia.

The early signs of acute myeloid leukemia can resemble those of the flu or other common illnesses. In addition, signs and symptoms can vary based on the type of blood cell affected.
Signs and symptoms of acute myelogenous leukemia include:
Fever Bone pain Fatigue Shortness of breath Pale skin Rapid or rapid breathing during exercise Dizziness, lightheadedness, Body susceptible to infection Easy bruising Purple Unusual bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds and bleeding from the gums.

The following factors may increase the risk of AML:
Age: The risk of acute myeloid leukemia increases with age and is most common in people 65 years of age and older. Gender: Men are more likely to develop AML than women. Have had cancer treatment: People who have been treated with certain types of chemotherapy and radiation may have a higher risk of developing AML than people without cancer. Radiation exposure: People who are exposed to very high levels of radiation, like survivors of a nuclear reactor accident, have an increased risk of developing AML. Hazardous chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as benzene, is associated with a higher risk of AML. Smoking: Because cigarettes contain benzene and many different cancer-causing chemicals, smoking increases the risk of AML and other cancers. Other blood disorders: People who already have other blood disorders such as myelosuppression, myelofibrosis, polycythemia vera, or thrombocythemia are at increased risk for AML. Genetic disorders: Certain genetic disorders such as Down syndrome are associated with an increased risk of AML. However, there are many people who have acute myeloid leukemia but do not have the above risk factors and vice versa, despite having the above risk factors, that person never gets cancer.
If you have unusual symptoms, you should be examined and consulted with a specialist.

References: cancer.net, webmd.com, mayoclinic.org
MORE:
What is leukemia? Common Types of Leukemia What is the number of white blood cells in the body?