When AML (acute myeloid leukemia) is suspected, what is the diagnosis process?

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JorgeCortesMD (Physician - Oncology - Hematology/Oncology (Verified) ) - 01 / 04 / 2013

A bone marrow aspiration is needed when AML is suspected. Occasionally the diagnosis can be made with peripheral blood, but the bone marrow provides additional information and will be later required to confirm remission. In addition, it is important to do an analysis of chromosomes. Chromosomal abnormalities may be seen in many patients with AML and the type of abnormalities may determine the prognosis and can guide treatment (for example, whether a stem cell transplant is recommended in first remission, or whether it is a core-binding factor AML that benefits from higher doses of ara-C). More recently, molecular abnormalities have been increasingly recognized in patients with AML. They have important prognostic implications. For example, a mutation in FLT3 carries a worse prognosis and may make one think more about stem cell transplant in first remission. Also, drugs somewhat specific for these mutations are being developed although these are still investigational.
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