What causes acute myeloid leukemia?
Most cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are the result of genetic mutations (alteration in normal gene) that occur in stem cells in the bone marrow. It also seems that the majority of these mutations are acquired during an individual’s lifetime, as opposed to being inherited. Environmental factors like chemicals (benzene etc.), drugs (alkylator chemotherapy), radiation etc. have been implicated as a causative factors for AML in many cases. Genetic mutations result in two type of gene anomalies i.e translocations or deletions. Translocations result when two chromosome exchange genetic materials and deletions occur when a chromosome lose genetic material. Translocations are found in less than 10% of patients over the age of 60 years with de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In contrast, genetic deletions seem to be more characteristic of older AML patients. Symptoms and Signs of acute myeloid leukemia Common symptoms of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) include unexplained fever, weakness
