What causes acute myeloid leukaemia?

AML begins in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. Changes in the genetic instructions of a developing myeloid cell can interfere with normal maturation and allow abnormal cells to accumulate. These cells crowd the marrow and reduce production of healthy red cells, platelets and infection-fighting white cells. The changes usually arise during a person’s lifetime rather than being passed directly from a parent. In some people, AML follows an earlier marrow disorder such as myelodysplastic syndromes or another blood condition. Often, no single cause can be identified.

If blood tests show unusual counts, bruising, repeated infections or persistent tiredness, arrange prompt medical review. Diagnosis commonly involves repeat blood tests, examination and testing of marrow cells. Share any previous blood disorder, cancer treatment, radiation exposure or long-term medicine history with the haematology team. These details can help classify the leukaemia and guide treatment, but they do not prove what caused it.

Seek urgent care for fever during suspected low immunity, uncontrolled bleeding, severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, or sudden weakness. Contact a clinician promptly for unexplained bruising, bleeding, recurrent infections, marked paleness or worsening exhaustion.

What do my blood and marrow results show? Could a previous marrow disorder be related? Which tests identify the AML subtype? What symptoms should lead me to seek urgent help?