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I D Cancer Center
I D Cancer Center
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  • Chidhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) | I D Cancer Center

Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a fast-growing cancer of the blood and bone marrow that occurs when immature myeloid cells (myeloblasts) grow uncontrollably. Although less common than ALL, AML requires rapid diagnosis and intensive treatment to achieve successful outcomes.


What Is Childhood AML?

AML starts in the bone marrow when early myeloid cells fail to mature into healthy white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets. As abnormal blasts multiply, they interfere with normal blood production and can spread to the liver, spleen, lymph nodes, skin, or the central nervous system.

Despite being aggressive, childhood AML is treatable, with cure rates improving significantly with modern therapy.

Common Symptoms of Childhood AML

Symptoms may develop suddenly due to rapid growth of leukemia cells:

  • Persistent fever or recurrent infections

  • Fatigue, breathlessness, or paleness

  • Easy bruising, bleeding gums, or frequent nosebleeds

  • Bone or joint pain

  • Loss of appetite or weight loss

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Enlarged liver or spleen

  • Skin rashes or small red spots (petechiae)

  • Headache or vomiting (rare CNS involvement)

If these symptoms persist, timely evaluation is essential.

Risk Factors

Most cases arise without a known cause, but certain factors may increase risk:

  • Genetic conditions (Down syndrome, Fanconi anemia, etc.)

  • Previous chemotherapy or radiation exposure

  • Bone marrow failure syndromes

  • Family history of hematological cancers

Routine checkups are vital as symptoms often resemble common childhood illnesses.

How Childhood AML Is Diagnosed

At I D Cancer Center, diagnosis is performed using international pediatric oncology guidelines:

1. Blood Tests

  • Complete blood count (CBC)

  • Peripheral blood smear

  • Liver and kidney function tests

2. Bone Marrow Examination

  • Bone marrow aspiration & biopsy

  • Identifies blast percentage and lineage

3. Flow Cytometry

Crucial for confirming AML and differentiating subtypes.

4. Cytogenetic & Molecular Tests

  • Chromosomal analysis

  • FLT3, NPM1, CEBPA mutations

  • Genetic panels to stratify risk and guide therapy

5. Imaging

  • Ultrasound abdomen

  • Chest X-ray

  • CNS imaging when needed

6. Lumbar Puncture (in selected cases)

To rule out leukemia in the central nervous system.

Treatment Options at I D Cancer Center

Childhood AML requires intensive, structured treatment delivered in phases.

1. Induction Chemotherapy

Goal: Achieve complete remission by destroying leukemia blasts.
Combination of powerful chemotherapy agents in specialized pediatric protocols.

2. Consolidation / Intensification Therapy

Multiple cycles of chemotherapy to eliminate remaining cancer cells.

3. Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)

Recommended for high-risk AML, poor responders, or relapse cases.
We collaborate with leading transplant centers to ensure seamless care.

4. Targeted Therapy

For selected genetic mutations:

  • FLT3 inhibitors

  • Other mutation-specific targeted agents

5. Supportive & Intensive Care

A critical component of AML treatment:

  • Infection prevention and control

  • Blood and platelet transfusions

  • Nutrition and hydration support

  • Pain and symptom management

  • Psychological counselling for the child and family

6. Management of Relapsed AML

Options include:

  • Newer targeted agents

  • Intensive chemotherapy

  • Immunotherapy (select cases)

  • Bone marrow transplant

Prognosis

Childhood AML outcomes depend on:

  • AML subtype and cytogenetics

  • Age at diagnosis

  • Response to induction chemotherapy

  • Minimal residual disease (MRD) levels

  • Overall child health

With timely, protocol-driven treatment and strong supportive care, many children achieve long-term remission and good quality of life.