acute myeloid leukemia
Also written as: AML — acute myeloid leukemia
A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow characterized by the accumulation of abnormal white blood cells called myeloblasts.
Full Definition
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous group of hematopoietic malignancies characterized by clonal proliferation of abnormal myeloid precursors that fail to differentiate normally. The disease typically presents with cytopenias due to bone marrow infiltration by leukemic blasts. AML is classified based on morphology, cytogenetics, and molecular abnormalities according to WHO criteria. Treatment generally involves intensive induction chemotherapy followed by consolidation therapy, with stem cell transplantation considered for high-risk cases.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'acute myeloid' to distinguish from other leukemia subtypes; AML is acceptable after first use.
In Context
- "The patient's bone marrow biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia with complex cytogenetics." — pathology report
- "Standard induction therapy for acute myeloid leukemia typically includes cytarabine and an anthracycline." — treatment protocol