Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Updated: April 25, 2024

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Background

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most prevalent type of leukemia in adults, accounting for over 80% of all occurrences.

Clonal growth of immature blast cells in the peripheral blood, and bone marrow results in inefficient erythropoiesis and bone marrow failure.

It usually begins in the bone marrow but rapidly spreads to the blood. It can spread to the lymph nodes, liver, testicles, spleen, and central nervous system.

Epidemiology

In the United States, there are around 20,000 instances every year.

The typical age upon diagnosis is around 65 years. It is more common in non-Hispanic whites. Males outnumber females by a factor of five, with a ratio of 5:3.

Anatomy

Pathophysiology

AML is defined as mutations in hematopoiesis-related genes. These mutations cause clonal growth of undifferentiated myeloid precursors in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, which leads to inadequate erythropoiesis and bone marrow failure.

Although the specific source of genetic abnormalities is unknown, a few risk factors include radiation, chemotherapeutic drugs, and smoking. Myelodysplastic syndrome, myeloproliferative diseases, aplastic anemia, and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria can all lead to AML.

It is vital to investigate familial causes of genetic alterations. Nucleophosmin 1 mutations are seen in 25%-30% of AML patients. This is the most prevalent mutation detected in AML and is more common in women.

Clinically, the mutation has a monocytic appearance and predicts a good outcome without FMS-like tyrosine kinase three or FLT3-ITD. In young and old individuals, NPM1 mutations are chemosensitive to rigorous chemotherapy.

Etiology

Several congenital abnormalities, including Bloom syndrome and Down syndrome, increase the risk of AML, which often manifests in the early twenties. Cigarette smoke, radiation, and benzene are all environmental risk factors for AML. Lastly, prior chemotherapeutic drug exposure is a risk factor for AML.

Genetics

Prognostic Factors

Chromosome abnormalities and genetic mutations are prognostic factors (FLT3 gene has unfavorable prognosis while NPM1 gene has a favorable prognosis).

Elderly individuals, white blood cell count larger than 100,000 at the time of diagnosis, and the detection of leukemic cells in the central nervous system have all been linked to poorer outcomes.

Clinical History

Physical Examination

Age group

Associated comorbidity

Associated activity

Acuity of presentation

Differential Diagnoses

Laboratory Studies

Imaging Studies

Procedures

Histologic Findings

Staging

Treatment Paradigm

by Stage

by Modality

Chemotherapy

Radiation Therapy

Surgical Interventions

Hormone Therapy

Immunotherapy

Hyperthermia

Photodynamic Therapy

Stem Cell Transplant

Targeted Therapy

Palliative Care

lifestyle-modifications-in-treating-aml

During treatment, ensuring adequate nutrition becomes paramount, providing the body with essential nutrients crucial for healing and recovery. 

  • Hydration: Maintaining proper hydration, especially amidst treatment, is vital. Consuming ample water aids in eliminating toxins and mitigating the risk of dehydration, a common concern during chemotherapy. 
  • Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise into one’s routine, as tolerated, can enhance energy levels, alleviate stress, and preserve muscle integrity and flexibility. Prior to commencing any exercise regimen, consulting a healthcare professional is imperative to tailor the approach according to individual needs and treatment plans. 
  • Stress Management: Employing relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can foster holistic well-being and fortify the immune system against stress-related impacts. 
  • Preventing Infections: Given the compromised immune systems associated with AML treatment, safeguarding against infections becomes paramount. Adhering to practices like rigorous hand hygiene, minimizing exposure to illness, and staying current with vaccinations are essential precautions. 
  • Adhering to Medical Guidance: Following prescribed treatment regimens, attending medical appointments diligently, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers form the cornerstone of effective AML management. Complying with medical directives concerning medications, treatment modalities, and lifestyle adjustments is imperative. 
  • Seeking Emotional Support: Seeking solace from loved ones, support networks, or mental health specialists can be instrumental in navigating the emotional complexities accompanying an AML diagnosis and treatment journey. 

Use of antineoplastic agents in treating AML

  • cytarabine : Cytarabine functions by impeding DNA synthesis, especially in rapidly replicating cells such as those found in cancer. As a nucleoside analog, it disrupts the regular processes of DNA during cellular division. 
  • daunorubicin :Daunorubicin inhibits the activity of topoisomerase II, an essential enzyme involved in DNA replication and repair processes. This interference leads to the formation of breaks in the DNA strands, consequently impeding the cancer cells’ capacity to multiply and endure. 
  • idarubicin : Idarubicin functions by blocking the activity of topoisomerase II, an enzyme crucial for DNA maintenance. Its inhibition prevents the repair of DNA breaks caused by topoisomerase II, leading to cell death. 
  • cyclophosphamide : Cyclophosphamide also acts as an immunosuppressive agent by suppressing the activity of certain immune cells, particularly T cells and B cells. Cyclophosphamide is classified as a cell-cycle non-specific agent; it can act on cells in various stages of the cell cycle. This property allows it to target rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. AML is distinguished by the rapid multiplication of anomalous myeloid precursor cells within the bone marrow. The efficacy of cyclophosphamide in AML treatment stems from its capacity to selectively target these swiftly dividing cells. 
  • Azacitidine : The recently approved oral formulation is indicated for adults with AML who have attained their initial complete remission through rigorous induction chemotherapy but are unable to proceed with intensive curative treatment. 

Role of Antineoplastics, Tyrosine kinase inhibitor in treating AML

  • Midostaurin (Rydapt) ; midostaurin targets FLT3, a receptor tyrosine kinase often found mutated and overexpressed in AML. These genetic alterations are associated with unrestricted cell proliferation, driving AML advancement. Through its inhibition of FLT3, midostaurin disrupts the signaling cascades responsible for fostering the growth and viability of AML cells, thus impeding disease progression. 
  • gilteritinib : Gilteritinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Its mechanism of action primarily involves inhibition of FLT3 mutations, particularly FLT3-ITD and FLT3-TKD mutations. 

Use of Hedgehog pathway inhibitor in treating AML

  • glasdegib (Daurismo) : It is recommended for persons 75 years of age or above who have just been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia or for those whose comorbidities prohibit the administration of low-dose cytarabine in conjunction with induction chemotherapy. 

Effectiveness of Bcl-2 Inhibitor in treating AML

  • venetoclax (Venclexta) : It is recommended for individuals currently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia who 75 years are old or above or for adults with concurrent health conditions that make them unsuitable candidates for extreme induction chemotherapy. This treatment is administered alongside low dose cytarabine, decitabine & azacytidine. 

Effectiveness of IDH inhibitors in treating AML

  • enasidenib : Enasidenib specifically targets and inhibits the mutated form of the IDH2 enzyme. Doing so reduces the production of 2-HG, thereby restoring normal cellular processes, including differentiation. Adults with IDH2-mutant acute myeloid leukemia who have relapsed or are refractory should consider it. 
  • olutasidenib (Rezlidhia) : Olutasidenib, an oral medication targeting IDH1, is prescribed for patients with refractory or relapsed AML who possess a confirmed IDH1 mutation. 

role-of-surgery-in-treating-aml

  • Stem Cell Transplant: This procedure entails replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells through transplantation. Although it’s not classified as a surgical remedy for leukemia, it does incorporate surgical methods during the transplantation procedure. 

role-of-management-in-treating-aml

  • Diagnostic Procedure: Diagnosing AML entails conducting a comprehensive assessment of medical history, physical examination, and various laboratory assessments, including blood work and bone marrow biopsy. Additionally, genetic, and cytogenetic evaluations are performed to ascertain the specific subtype of AML, aiding in treatment determinations. 
  • Initial Therapeutic Approach (Induction Therapy): The primary aim of induction therapy is to achieve remission by diminishing the leukemia cell count in both the bone marrow and blood to undetectable levels. Typically, this is accomplished through chemotherapy, often employing a blend of cytarabine and an anthracycline drug such as daunorubicin or idarubicin. Certain patients, particularly those possessing specific genetic mutations and younger individuals, might be eligible for targeted therapies or participation in clinical trials. 
  • Consolidation Treatment: Following the attainment of remission via induction therapy, consolidation treatment is administered to eradicate any residual leukemia cells and mitigate the risk of relapse. This phase may entail additional cycles of chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation (either allogeneic or autologous), or targeted therapies, contingent upon the patient’s risk profile and overall health status. 
  • Maintenance Regimen: For select patient subsets, maintenance therapy is often recommended to diminish the likelihood of relapse further. This could involve the administration of low-dose chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or other tailored approaches. 
  • Ongoing Monitoring and Supportive Care: Throughout the entirety of treatment, patients undergo vigilant monitoring for signs of relapse and management of any treatment-related adverse effects. Supportive measures such as blood transfusions, antibiotic therapy, and growth factors may be employed to address complications such as infections and hematologic deficiencies. 
  • Engagement in Clinical Studies: Encouraging participation in clinical trials is common practice for individuals diagnosed with AML, given the ongoing exploration of novel treatment modalities aimed at enhancing outcomes and minimizing adverse effects. 

Medication

 

cladribine

5

mg/m^2

Intravenous (IV)

5

days

daily infused over 3 hours, generally given in combination with daunorubicin and cytarabine



cladribine

CLAG regimen:

5

mg/m^2

Intravenous (IV)

Over 2 hr

5

days

given in combination with cytarabine, filgrastim and mitoxantrone



azacitidine

300

mg

Orally 

once a day

14

days

for 28 days cycle



enasidenib

100

mg

Tablet

Oral

once a day

Continue the treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs    Patients without disease progression or unacceptable severe effects continue the treatment for six months to achieve clinical response



decitabine

20

mg/m^2

Intravenous (IV)

over 1 hr

once daily for 5 days at 28-day cycle
For AML with TP53 mutation:
20 mg/m2 IV infused over 1 hour for 10 days for 28-day cycle
20 mg/m2 IV infused over 1 hour for 5 days for 28-days cycle in combination with venetoclax



Dose Adjustments

Require dose adjustment in case of renal dysfunction or hemodialysis
Terminate the use of docetaxel if total bilirubin > 2.5 times ULN
Administer 80% of the dose: AST/ALT > 2.5 to 5 times ULN
Discontinue the therapy with docetaxel: AST/ALT >5 times
Delay the treatment for 6 to 8 weeks: hematologic toxicity (ANC<1000/µl and platelets < 50,000/µl)

ivosidenib

500

mg

Orally

once a day

continue the treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs
patients without disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, given the treatment for up to a minimum of 6 months for clinical response



gemtuzumab

Newly diagnosed CD33-positive acute myeloid leukemia (AML):
COMBINATION REGIMEN
Induction: 3 mg per m2 IV over 2hrs for Days 1, 4, and 7 given in combination with daunorubicin and cytarabine
the drug gemtuzumab during the second induction cycle gemtuzumab isn't encouraged for patients who require a second induction cycle
Consolidation: 3 mg per m2 IV over 2hrs on Day 1 in combination with daunorubicin and cytarabine

Newly diagnosed CD33-positive acute myeloid leukemia (AML):
SINGLE-AGENT REGIMEN:
Induction: 6 mg per m2 IV over 2hrs on Day 1 and 3 mg/m2 IV on Day 8
Continuation: 2 mg per m2 IV over 2hrs on Day 1 every four weeks
Relapsed or Refractory CD33-positive AML:
SINGLE-AGENT REGIMEN:
3 mg per m2 IV over 2hrs on Days 1, 4, and 7
a single course of gemtuzumab given for treatment in the relapsed or refractory setting



olutasidenib 

150

mg

Capsules

Orally 

twice a day


until the disease progresses



Dose Adjustments


Differentiation syndrome
Withhold REZLIDHIA if differentiation syndrome is suspected until signs and symptoms become improved
Systemic corticosteroids should be given; hemodynamic monitoring should start and continue for at least three days after symptom remission
Restart REZLIDHIA at 150 mg twice daily once the differentiation syndrome has subsided.

sargramostim 

Indicated for Acute myeloid leukemia following induction therapy:


• This is a treatment regimen for administering medication (likely a form of chemotherapy) intravenously at a dose of 250 mcg/m2/day over 4 hours
• The treatment is to begin on or around day 11 of the treatment cycle, or four days after the completion of induction chemotherapy provided that the patient's bone marrow is hypoplastic (meaning that it has a reduced number of cells) and that the number of blasts (immature blood cells) is less than 5%. Suppose a second cycle of induction chemotherapy is needed
• In that case, the treatment is to be administered approximately four days after the completion of the chemotherapy, again provided that the bone marrow is hypoplastic with less than 5% blasts
• The treatment is to continue until the patient's absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is more significant than 1500 cells/mm3 for three consecutive days or a maximum of 42 days



glasdegib 

100 mg orally four times daily on 1-28 days of 28 days cycle. It is given in combination with 20 mg of cytarabine subcutaneously, twice daily, for 1-10 days of the cycle



Dose Adjustments

In case of QT prolongation (separate ECGs ≥2)
QTc >480 to 500 milliseconds
Check the electrolyte levels and provide supplements as indicated
Review & adjust concomitant medications with QTc interval-prolonging effects
Weekly monitor the ECGs for 2 weeks after the QTc prolongation resolution ≤480 milliseconds
QT >500 milliseconds
Check the electrolyte levels and provide supplements as indicated
Review & adjust concomitant medications with QTc interval-prolonging effects
Check on glasdegib dosing; restart at a reduced dose of 50 mg per day when QTc interval returns to 30 milliseconds
Weekly monitor the ECGs for 2 weeks after the QTc prolongation resolution
Consider re-starting glasdegib dose to 100 mg per day if other causes are identified for QTc prolongation
If QTc prolongation occurs with life-threatening arrhythmia, discontinue the dosing permanently
In case of hematologic toxicity
If platelets are less than 10 Gi/L or neutrophil count is less than 0.5 Gi/L for more than 42 days in the absence of disease, discontinue cytarabine and glasdegib permanently.
In case of non-hematologic toxicity
Interrupt glasdegib until symptoms are reduced
Start glasdegib at the same dose or reduce the dose to 50 mg
In high-grade, non-hematologic toxicity, discontinue glasdegib permanently
In case of renal impairment
No dosage modifications are recommended if eGFR 15-89 mL/min (mild-to-severe)
Monitor the patients with severe renal impairment (when eGFR is 15-29 mL/min); there is an increased risk of adverse effects
No studies are performed in the case of hepatic impairment

gilteritinib 

120 mg orally each day, the response may get delayed Continue the dose for at least 6 months until the unacceptable toxicity or disease progression



Dose Adjustments

In case of adverse reactions
For PRES (posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome), discontinue the treatment
If the QTc interval >500 milliseconds interrupt the treatment; start over at 80 mg when the QTc interval gets backs within 30 milliseconds
For pancreatitis, interrupt the treatment if the condition persists; start over the dose at 80 mg

Differentiation Syndrome
If differentiation syndrome is suspected, administer systemic corticosteroids, and start hemodynamic monitoring
Continue this process until symptoms are resolved for minimum 3 days
Interrupt dose if severe symptoms and signs persist for over 48 hours after initiating corticosteroids
Start over the previous dose if the symptoms improve
Hepatic or renal impairment
In the case of mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment, the effect of meaningful pharmacokinetics is unknown
In case of severe hepatic or renal impairment, the effect of the drug is unknown

midostaurin 

50 mg orally twice daily from the 8th to the 21st day of the cycle
Use the drug in combination with standard daunorubicin and cytarabine
The dose should be taken with food



mitoxantrone 

Induction therapy: On days 1 through 3, administer 12 mg/m2 once a day (in addition to 100 mg/m2 of cytarabine given as a continuous intravenous infusion on days 1 through 7)

Second Induction Therapy: On days 1 and 2, inject 12 mg/m2 (combined with a continuous 24-hour intravenous infusion of cytarabine on days 1 through 5)

Consolidation: Day 1 and Day 2 IV administration of 12 mg/m2. The first course is typically delivered six weeks after the last introductory course, while the second is delivered four weeks later.



thioguanine 

Indicated for Acute Nonlymphocytic Leukaemia:


2 mg/kg orally everyday
If there is no improvement after four weeks, gradually increase to 3 mg/kg/day
Consume on an empty stomach to avoid nausea and vomiting



cytarabine/daunorubicin liposomal 

Induction
First cycle: Administering liposomal daunorubicin at a dosage of 44 mg/m2 along with cytarabine at a dosage of 100 mg/m2 via intravenous infusion on days first third and fifth recommended
Second cycle: Exclusively intended for patients who do not experience a favorable outcome following the initial induction cycle
If there were no unacceptable toxicity, the second cycle can be administered within a time frame of 2-5 weeks following the initial cycle
If necessary, It involves the intravenous (IV) administration of liposomal daunorubicin at a dosage of 44 mg/m2 and cytarabine at a dosage of 100 mg/m2
This administration should be performed on the first and third days Consolidation
Consolidation: intravenous liposomal (daunorubicin 29 mg/m2/cytarabine 65 mg/m2) on days 1 and 3
begin the initial consolidation phase approximately 5-8 weeks following the commencement of the preceding induction phase



quizartinib (Pending FDA Approval) 

FDA approval pending for relapsed or resistant acute myeloid leukemia (AML).



voreloxin(Orphan Drug) 

To treat refractory or relapsed AML, administer 80–90 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 and 4 (in combination with cytarabine).
AML newly diagnosed in elderly patients: 72 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 and 8 twice daily.



lestaurtinib 

Take an initial dose of 60 mg orally twice daily for 8 weeks



amsacrine 

off-label:

120 mg/m2 amsacrine combined with cytarabine intravenously for an hour on the third, fifth, and seventh day of the induction cycle
or 120 mg/m2 intravenously combined with cytarabine for an hour on the fourth, fifth, and sixth day of the second induction cycle



 

cladribine

Children and adolescents:

8.9

mg/m^2

Intravenous (IV)

once a day

5

days



azacitidine

Children > 2 years and adolescents:

75

mg/m^2

Subcutaneous (SC)

once a day

7

days

Or
300 mg/m^2 IV once a day for 2 days.



azacitidine

Children > 2 years and adolescents:

75

mg/m^2

Subcutaneous (SC)

once a day

7

days

Or
300 mg/m^2 IV once a day for 2 days.



etoposide

off-label: If the child is less than three years, a dose :

3.3

mg/kg

once a day

IV given continuous infusion for four days If the child is more than three years, a dose of 100 mg per m² per day IV given continuous infusion for four days



enasidenib

Safety and efficacy are not studied



gemtuzumab

Newly Diagnosed De Novo CD33-positive AML:
Combination Regimen:
age: >1year
BSA< 0.6 m2: 0.1 mg per kg IV over 2hrs
BSA>0.6 m2: 0.3 mg per m2 IV over 2hrs
INDUCTION 1:
gemtuzumab is given for Induction 1 once in combination with standard chemotherapy
In the second induction cycle, gemtuzumab isn't encouraged
INTENSIFICATION:
in the first or third intensification cycles, gemtuzumab isn't encouraged gemtuzumab is given for Intensification 2 once in combination with standard chemotherapy
During Intensification 2, check for risks and potential benefits before giving gemtuzumab
Relapsed or Refractory CD33-positive AML:
SINGLE-AGENT REGIMEN:
age: > 2years
3 mg per m2 given IV over 2hrs on Days 1, 4, and 7
a single course of gemtuzumab for treatment in the relapsed or refractory setting



thioguanine 

Indicated for Acute Nonlymphocytic Leukaemia:


2 mg/kg orally everyday
If there is no improvement after four weeks, gradually increase to 3 mg/kg/day
Consume on an empty stomach to avoid nausea and vomiting



cytarabine/daunorubicin liposomal 

Induction
First cycle: Intravenous administration of liposomal daunorubicin at a dosage of 44 mg/m2 in combination with cytarabine at a dosage of 100 mg/m2 on days first third and fifth
Second cycle: This is exclusively intended for patients who do not experience a response during their initial induction cycle
If there were no instances of unacceptable toxicity, the second cycle may be scheduled within a timeframe of 2-5 weeks following the initial cycle
In case it is required, the liposomal formulation of daunorubicin should be administered intravenously at a dose of 44 mg/m2, along with intravenous administration of cytarabine at a dose of 100 mg/m2 on the first and third days
Consolidation
Consolidation: intravenous liposomal (daunorubicin at a dosage of 29 mg/m2 and cytarabine at a dosage of 65 mg/m2) on days 1 and 3
begin the initial consolidation phase approximately 5-8 weeks following the commencement of the preceding induction phase



 

enasidenib

Refer adult dosing  



decitabine

20

mg/m^2

Intravenous (IV)

over 1 hr

for 5 days for a 28-day cycle in combination with venetoclax
Terminate the therapy as soon as unacceptable adverse effects appear



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Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Updated : April 25, 2024

Mail Whatsapp PDF Image



Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most prevalent type of leukemia in adults, accounting for over 80% of all occurrences.

Clonal growth of immature blast cells in the peripheral blood, and bone marrow results in inefficient erythropoiesis and bone marrow failure.

It usually begins in the bone marrow but rapidly spreads to the blood. It can spread to the lymph nodes, liver, testicles, spleen, and central nervous system.

In the United States, there are around 20,000 instances every year.

The typical age upon diagnosis is around 65 years. It is more common in non-Hispanic whites. Males outnumber females by a factor of five, with a ratio of 5:3.

AML is defined as mutations in hematopoiesis-related genes. These mutations cause clonal growth of undifferentiated myeloid precursors in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, which leads to inadequate erythropoiesis and bone marrow failure.

Although the specific source of genetic abnormalities is unknown, a few risk factors include radiation, chemotherapeutic drugs, and smoking. Myelodysplastic syndrome, myeloproliferative diseases, aplastic anemia, and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria can all lead to AML.

It is vital to investigate familial causes of genetic alterations. Nucleophosmin 1 mutations are seen in 25%-30% of AML patients. This is the most prevalent mutation detected in AML and is more common in women.

Clinically, the mutation has a monocytic appearance and predicts a good outcome without FMS-like tyrosine kinase three or FLT3-ITD. In young and old individuals, NPM1 mutations are chemosensitive to rigorous chemotherapy.

Several congenital abnormalities, including Bloom syndrome and Down syndrome, increase the risk of AML, which often manifests in the early twenties. Cigarette smoke, radiation, and benzene are all environmental risk factors for AML. Lastly, prior chemotherapeutic drug exposure is a risk factor for AML.

Chromosome abnormalities and genetic mutations are prognostic factors (FLT3 gene has unfavorable prognosis while NPM1 gene has a favorable prognosis).

Elderly individuals, white blood cell count larger than 100,000 at the time of diagnosis, and the detection of leukemic cells in the central nervous system have all been linked to poorer outcomes.

Hematology

During treatment, ensuring adequate nutrition becomes paramount, providing the body with essential nutrients crucial for healing and recovery. 

  • Hydration: Maintaining proper hydration, especially amidst treatment, is vital. Consuming ample water aids in eliminating toxins and mitigating the risk of dehydration, a common concern during chemotherapy. 
  • Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise into one’s routine, as tolerated, can enhance energy levels, alleviate stress, and preserve muscle integrity and flexibility. Prior to commencing any exercise regimen, consulting a healthcare professional is imperative to tailor the approach according to individual needs and treatment plans. 
  • Stress Management: Employing relaxation methods such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can foster holistic well-being and fortify the immune system against stress-related impacts. 
  • Preventing Infections: Given the compromised immune systems associated with AML treatment, safeguarding against infections becomes paramount. Adhering to practices like rigorous hand hygiene, minimizing exposure to illness, and staying current with vaccinations are essential precautions. 
  • Adhering to Medical Guidance: Following prescribed treatment regimens, attending medical appointments diligently, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers form the cornerstone of effective AML management. Complying with medical directives concerning medications, treatment modalities, and lifestyle adjustments is imperative. 
  • Seeking Emotional Support: Seeking solace from loved ones, support networks, or mental health specialists can be instrumental in navigating the emotional complexities accompanying an AML diagnosis and treatment journey. 

Hematology

  • cytarabine : Cytarabine functions by impeding DNA synthesis, especially in rapidly replicating cells such as those found in cancer. As a nucleoside analog, it disrupts the regular processes of DNA during cellular division. 
  • daunorubicin :Daunorubicin inhibits the activity of topoisomerase II, an essential enzyme involved in DNA replication and repair processes. This interference leads to the formation of breaks in the DNA strands, consequently impeding the cancer cells’ capacity to multiply and endure. 
  • idarubicin : Idarubicin functions by blocking the activity of topoisomerase II, an enzyme crucial for DNA maintenance. Its inhibition prevents the repair of DNA breaks caused by topoisomerase II, leading to cell death. 
  • cyclophosphamide : Cyclophosphamide also acts as an immunosuppressive agent by suppressing the activity of certain immune cells, particularly T cells and B cells. Cyclophosphamide is classified as a cell-cycle non-specific agent; it can act on cells in various stages of the cell cycle. This property allows it to target rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. AML is distinguished by the rapid multiplication of anomalous myeloid precursor cells within the bone marrow. The efficacy of cyclophosphamide in AML treatment stems from its capacity to selectively target these swiftly dividing cells. 
  • Azacitidine : The recently approved oral formulation is indicated for adults with AML who have attained their initial complete remission through rigorous induction chemotherapy but are unable to proceed with intensive curative treatment. 

Hematology

  • Midostaurin (Rydapt) ; midostaurin targets FLT3, a receptor tyrosine kinase often found mutated and overexpressed in AML. These genetic alterations are associated with unrestricted cell proliferation, driving AML advancement. Through its inhibition of FLT3, midostaurin disrupts the signaling cascades responsible for fostering the growth and viability of AML cells, thus impeding disease progression. 
  • gilteritinib : Gilteritinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor used for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. Its mechanism of action primarily involves inhibition of FLT3 mutations, particularly FLT3-ITD and FLT3-TKD mutations. 

Hematology

  • glasdegib (Daurismo) : It is recommended for persons 75 years of age or above who have just been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia or for those whose comorbidities prohibit the administration of low-dose cytarabine in conjunction with induction chemotherapy. 

Hematology

  • venetoclax (Venclexta) : It is recommended for individuals currently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia who 75 years are old or above or for adults with concurrent health conditions that make them unsuitable candidates for extreme induction chemotherapy. This treatment is administered alongside low dose cytarabine, decitabine & azacytidine. 

Hematology

  • enasidenib : Enasidenib specifically targets and inhibits the mutated form of the IDH2 enzyme. Doing so reduces the production of 2-HG, thereby restoring normal cellular processes, including differentiation. Adults with IDH2-mutant acute myeloid leukemia who have relapsed or are refractory should consider it. 
  • olutasidenib (Rezlidhia) : Olutasidenib, an oral medication targeting IDH1, is prescribed for patients with refractory or relapsed AML who possess a confirmed IDH1 mutation. 

Hematology

  • Stem Cell Transplant: This procedure entails replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells through transplantation. Although it’s not classified as a surgical remedy for leukemia, it does incorporate surgical methods during the transplantation procedure. 

Hematology

  • Diagnostic Procedure: Diagnosing AML entails conducting a comprehensive assessment of medical history, physical examination, and various laboratory assessments, including blood work and bone marrow biopsy. Additionally, genetic, and cytogenetic evaluations are performed to ascertain the specific subtype of AML, aiding in treatment determinations. 
  • Initial Therapeutic Approach (Induction Therapy): The primary aim of induction therapy is to achieve remission by diminishing the leukemia cell count in both the bone marrow and blood to undetectable levels. Typically, this is accomplished through chemotherapy, often employing a blend of cytarabine and an anthracycline drug such as daunorubicin or idarubicin. Certain patients, particularly those possessing specific genetic mutations and younger individuals, might be eligible for targeted therapies or participation in clinical trials. 
  • Consolidation Treatment: Following the attainment of remission via induction therapy, consolidation treatment is administered to eradicate any residual leukemia cells and mitigate the risk of relapse. This phase may entail additional cycles of chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation (either allogeneic or autologous), or targeted therapies, contingent upon the patient’s risk profile and overall health status. 
  • Maintenance Regimen: For select patient subsets, maintenance therapy is often recommended to diminish the likelihood of relapse further. This could involve the administration of low-dose chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or other tailored approaches. 
  • Ongoing Monitoring and Supportive Care: Throughout the entirety of treatment, patients undergo vigilant monitoring for signs of relapse and management of any treatment-related adverse effects. Supportive measures such as blood transfusions, antibiotic therapy, and growth factors may be employed to address complications such as infections and hematologic deficiencies. 
  • Engagement in Clinical Studies: Encouraging participation in clinical trials is common practice for individuals diagnosed with AML, given the ongoing exploration of novel treatment modalities aimed at enhancing outcomes and minimizing adverse effects. 

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