What happens if acute myeloid leukaemia is not treated?

AML develops in the bone marrow, where blood cells are made. As abnormal myeloid cells build up, there may be fewer healthy red cells, platelets and infection-fighting white cells. This can lead to tiredness or breathlessness from anaemia, easy bruising or bleeding from low platelets, and infections when immune defences are reduced.

The illness can also affect organs if abnormal cells collect outside the marrow. The pace and pattern vary, so a person may not feel severely unwell at first. A related marrow disorder, such as [Myelodysplastic Syndromes](/conditions/myelodysplastic-syndromes/), does not mean the same thing as AML, and diagnosis requires specialist tests.

Arrange urgent assessment with a haematology team rather than waiting for symptoms to settle. Evaluation may include blood tests, a marrow sample, cell analysis and genetic testing to define the AML subtype and guide treatment. Treatment can involve [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/), [Targeted Therapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/targeted-therapy/) or, for selected people, an [Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant](/treatments/cellular-and-transplant-therapy/allogeneic-stem-cell-transplant/).

Until reviewed, report medicines that increase bleeding risk, avoid close contact with people who are ill where possible, and ask what to do if you develop a fever. Do not start supplements or stop prescribed medicines without guidance.

Seek urgent medical care for a fever or chills, breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, severe weakness, uncontrolled bleeding, black stools, a severe headache or new neurological symptoms. [Unexplained Fever](/symptoms/unexplained-fever/) and [Easy Bruising](/symptoms/easy-bruising/) can have many causes, but with suspected AML they need prompt clinical advice.

How quickly do I need assessment? Which blood-cell levels are affected? What tests will identify the subtype? What treatment choices fit my health, and which symptoms mean I should go to hospital immediately?