Adult AML Stages
The extent, or spread, of cancer is usually described in stages. However, in adult AML, the subtype and whether the leukemia has spread outside the blood and bone marrow are used instead of adult AML stages. Adult AML "stages" include untreated, in remission, or recurrent. By knowing the stage, doctors can plan the most appropriate treatment.
Once adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has been diagnosed, tests are done to find out if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. The extent or spread of cancer is usually described in stages. However, in adult acute myeloid leukemia, the subtype of AML and whether the leukemia has spread outside the blood and bone marrow are used, instead of stages, in order to plan treatment. Acute myeloid leukemia is also called acute myelogenous leukemia.
Tests and procedures that may be used to determine if the leukemia has spread include:
- Chest x-ray: An x-ray of the organs and bones inside the chest. An x-ray is a type of energy beam that can go through the body and onto film, making a picture of areas inside the body.
- Lumbar puncture: A procedure used to collect cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal column by placing a needle into it. This procedure is also called an LP or spinal tap.
- Ultrasound: A procedure in which high-energy sound waves (ultrasound) are bounced off internal tissues or organs in the abdomen and make echoes. The echoes form a picture of body tissues called a sonogram.
There is no standard staging system for adult AML. Adult AML is described as untreated, in remission, or recurrent.