Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive cancer that develops in the bone marrow affecting the production of myeloid cells of the blood.

AML affects individuals of any age, race, or gender. The condition is most commonly diagnosed in older individuals. Many cases of AML appear without risk factors. Radiation and chemotherapy, exposure to certain chemicals, certain genetic conditions, or smoking are additional risk factors.

Physical signs of AML include: fatigue, pale skin, easy or unusual bruising or bleeding, pinpoint sized red spots beneath the skin, unintended weight loss, and fever. The symptoms range from anaemia to infections due to a low platelet count.

Diagnostics require blood tests and a bone marrow biopsy. Early diagnosis is critical followed by an aggressive course of treatment for managing AML.