Patient Information

The cause is most often unknown.
Acute myeloid leukemias are generally not hereditary; however, in rare families, there may be a genetic predisposition, with several family members potentially affected.

Diagnosis is based on:

• A blood test (CBC) to identify possible abnormalities, such as a low red blood cell count, white blood cell count, or platelet count.

• A bone marrow examination (myelogram) allows for: Cytology (looking for abnormal cells, especially immature “blast” cells, and morphological abnormalities), Cytogenetics (chromosome analysis or “karyotype”), Molecular biology (detection of genetic mutations), Flow cytometry (analysis of cell characteristics, such as the presence of specific surface markers).

• A bone marrow biopsy (pelvic bone puncture) is sometimes required for the collection of cerebrospinal fluid (to check for possible neurological involvement).
• Additional assessments may be performed before starting treatment: renal, liver, pulmonary (chest X-ray), and cardiac (electrocardiogram, echocardiography) evaluations. Geriatric assessment (depending on your age or comorbidities).

• Fatigue, paleness, palpitations, and shortness of breath are signs of anemia (a low red blood cell count).
  If you have coronary artery disease, you may also experience angina attacks (chest pain).

• Fever and infections (especially lung infections) are signs of leukopenia or neutropenia (a low white blood cell count). These infections can become serious if not treated with antibiotics.
• Bleeding (especially from mucous membranes), red spots on the limbs, and bruises are signs of thrombocytopenia (a low platelet count). These bleeding episodes can be worsened if you are taking blood thinners or antiplatelet medications (aspirin, Plavix).