Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the bone marrow and blood characterized by the rapid uncontrolled growth of immature white blood cells known as myelocytes. The disease is more common in adults than in children, with the average age at diagnosis being more than 65 years. However, diagnostic procedures and treatment of children and adults are similar.Changes in chromosomes in leukemia cells can be identified in 80% of children with AML. These distinct chromosomal changes detected on cytogenetic examination are often associated with different outcomes of treatment. With current treatment, 30-50% of children with AML are cured. It is important to identify those children who can be cured with standard treatments and those who should receive more individualized treatment. The distinct type of chromosomal abnormality present at diagnosis has been shown to help identify patients with a "good" or "bad" outcome.

Patients with leukemia containing cytogenetic abnormalities can often be tested after treatment for the detection of small numbers of leukemia cells that cannot be detected under the microscope. The technique used is called polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR can detect very small numbers of leukemia cells, thereby indicating the need for more treatment, as small numbers of leukemia cells inevitably lead to a relapse. PCR is useful for the monitoring of treatment results of both children and adults with AML.