Diagnosing Acute Myelogenous (Myeloid) Leukemia (AML)

Overview

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. To diagnose AML, the following examinations, tests, and procedures are commonly performed:

Medical history and physical exam: A doctor will take your medical history and perform a physical exam to assess your symptoms and overall health.
Blood tests: These can include a complete blood count (CBC) which checks the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. Other blood tests may provide information about your liver and kidney function, as well as the levels of glucose, electrolytes, and fats in your blood.
Bone marrow biopsy: This procedure involves collecting samples from the bone marrow using special needles. The samples are then examined for leukemia cells.
Imaging tests: The type of imaging study chosen depends on your symptoms and the part of the body being examined. Some common imaging tests include X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasound.

To determine the type, severity, or stage of AML and identify factors or indicators specific to the disease, additional examinations, tests, or procedures may be done. These can include:

Subtype testing: Further testing may be done on the bone marrow samples to determine the specific subtype of AML. This information helps guide treatment decisions.
Lumbar puncture: Also known as a spinal tap, this procedure involves collecting cerebrospinal fluid from the lower back to check for leukemia cells or signs of spread to the central nervous system.
Cytogenetic analysis: This test examines the chromosomes in leukemia cells to identify any genetic abnormalities that may affect prognosis and treatment options.
Flow cytometry: This test analyzes the proteins on the surface of leukemia cells to determine their characteristics and subtype.
Molecular testing: Molecular tests look for specific genetic mutations or changes in leukemia cells that can help guide targeted therapies.

These examinations, screening tests, and procedures are essential for diagnosing AML and determining its type, severity, or stage. It's important to consult with a doctor who can evaluate your individual case and recommend appropriate diagnostic measures tailored to your specific needs.