Acute myelomonocytic leukemia: Symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
Acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AMML) is a type of blood cancer that affects the white blood cells. It is a rare subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) which is characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal myeloid blasts. These cells are immature and do not function properly, leading to a variety of symptoms.
Symptoms of AMML may include:
- Bone pain
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Fever or chills
- Fatigue or weakness
- Night sweats
- Shortness of breath
- Weight loss
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor may perform a physical exam, blood tests, and a bone marrow biopsy to diagnose AMML.
Treatment for AMML typically involves chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplantation. Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells, while radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. Stem cell transplantation involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells to help the body produce new, healthy blood cells.
It is important to note that treatment for AMML can be challenging, and it is important to work closely with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Your doctor may also recommend supportive care, such as pain management and nutrition therapy, to help manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.