Symptoms of Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Like all blood cells,
leukemia cells travel through the body. Depending on the number of abnormal cells and where these cells collect, patients with
leukemia may have a number of symptoms.
The early signs of adult acute myeloid leukemia may be similar to those caused by
the flu or other common diseases. Common symptoms of adult acute myeloid leukemia include:
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Petechiae (flat, pinpoint spots under the skin caused by bleeding)
- Weakness or feeling tired
- Loss of appetite or weight loss.
These and other symptoms may be caused by adult acute myeloid leukemia or by other conditions. Therefore, people who experience possible symptoms of
AML should see their doctor, who can make a firm diagnosis.
Diagnosing Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Tests that examine the blood and bone marrow are used to detect and diagnose adult acute myeloid leukemia. Tests and procedures that may be used to diagnose adult acute myeloid leukemia include:
- Physical exam and history
- Complete blood count
- Blood chemistry studies
- Peripheral blood smear
- Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy
- Cytogenetic analysis
- Immunophenotyping.
Physical Exam and History
The physical exam entails an exam of the body to check general signs of health, including checking for signs of disease, such as lumps or anything else that seems unusual. A history of the patient's health habits and past illnesses and treatments will also be taken.
Previous
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print