Pediatric Oncologists Treating Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a form of cancer that develops in other blood cell types found in the bone marrow. It can occur in children, and is also known as acute myeloid leukemia. The cancer originates in very early forms of myelocytes, called myeloblasts or blasts, which are most often early forms of white blood cells. In some cases they can be early red blood cells (megakaryocytes).
As the leukemia cells grow, they can crowd out the normal cells in the bone marrow, inhibiting the diversity of blood cells and decreasing red blood cell counts. People with AML have too many white blood cells in their blood, but these cells are not normal and don't help fight infections. In fact, people with AML often get more infections than people without it. AML can also cause a person not to have enough platelets, which can lead to excess bleeding or bruising.
AML is a type of acute leukemia. This means it tends to grow fast and needs to be treated right away. It can be diagnosed by blood and bone marrow tests.
Subtypes of AML
There are several subtypes of AML, which are based on what type of cells the leukemia starts in, and the maturity of cells. The main system of subtypes includes:
- M0. Undifferentiated AML
- M1. Myeloblastic leukemia with minimal maturation
- M2. Myeloblastic leukemia with maturation
- M3. Promyelocytic leukemia
- M4. Myelomonocytic leukemia
- M4eo. Myelomonocytic leukemia with eosinophilia
- M5. Monocytic leukemia
- M6. Erythroid leukemia
- M7. Megakaryoblastic leukemia
Multidisciplinary Cancer Care
We offer comprehensive cancer treatment from a compassionate team of oncologists and other specialists. Our team works with you to devise an AML care plan that empowers you to take charge of your health and continue living your best life.
To contact one of New Jersey’s best pediatric cancer specialists call 844-CANCERNJ or 844-226-2376.