Normally our bone marrow makes blood stem cells, also called immature cells.   In time, blood stem cells mature and become either Myeloid stem cells or Lymphoid stem cells.

If you have an AML diagnosis, your Myeloid stem cells, seen here in orange, do not mature into healthy white blood cells. In addition, sometimes in AML, too many stem cells become abnormal red blood cells or platelets.  These abnormal white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets are all called leukemia cells.

What Tests Will I Need and Why?

Blood and Imaging tests are done to understand your general health and confirm your diagnosis.

Tissue analysis in the form of a bone marrow biopsy and sometimes also a sample of spine liquid is done to determine the type of AML.

If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.  This information is critical to finding the best treatment option for you given your goals and lifestyle needs.

Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.