Understanding Aml

Understanding AML

Acute Myeloid Leukemia: What you need to know about this blood cancer and its relationship to MDS

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow where abnormal white blood cells multiply rapidly and interfere with normal blood cell production. For patients with MDS, understanding AML is important because approximately 30% of MDS cases will progress to AML.

The transition from MDS to AML occurs when blast cells (immature blood cells) in the bone marrow reach 20% or higher. This transformation represents a more aggressive phase of disease that requires prompt treatment.

Early recognition of symptoms and understanding treatment options can help you be prepared and make informed decisions with your healthcare team.

What is AML?

  • Cancer of blood and bone marrow
  • Rapid growth of abnormal cells
  • Crowds out healthy blood cells
  • Requires immediate treatment

MDS to AML

  • 30% of MDS cases progress
  • Occurs when blasts reach 20%
  • Higher risk with certain subtypes
  • Regular monitoring is key

Symptoms

  • Worsening fatigue
  • Frequent infections
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Fever and bone pain

Treatment

  • Intensive chemotherapy
  • Targeted therapies
  • Stem cell transplant
  • Clinical trials available

Risk Factors for Progression

  1. Higher-risk MDS subtypes – RAEB-1 and RAEB-2 have increased progression rates
  2. Increased blast percentage – When blasts reach 5-19%, risk of AML increases significantly
  3. Complex cytogenetics – Three or more chromosomal abnormalities indicate higher risk
  4. Specific genetic mutations – TP53, ASXL1, and RUNX1 mutations are associated with progression
  5. Severe cytopenias – Very low blood counts across multiple cell lines
  6. Treatment-related MDS – MDS from prior chemotherapy or radiation therapy

Important Note

Your care team uses the IPSS-R scoring system to assess your individual risk of progression. Regular monitoring through blood tests and bone marrow biopsies helps detect changes early.

Contact your doctor immediately if you notice sudden changes in symptoms or new warning signs.