Ailments accompanying Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Citings of bodily and psychological issues
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a type of cancer affecting the bone marrow and blood in adults, can lead to a variety of complications that impact both neurological function and physical health.
Neurological Complications
One of the most concerning neurological complications is leukostasis, a condition where excessive leukemia blast cells clog small blood vessels, including those in the brain. This can result in symptoms such as weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, confusion, headache, and sleepiness. In rare cases, AML may spread to the brain or spinal cord, causing additional symptoms like seizures, facial numbness, vomiting, and balance difficulties.
Physical Complications
Reduced red blood cell production due to AML can lead to anemia-related symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin. Another significant issue is bleeding and clotting disorders, particularly prevalent in a subtype of AML known as acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). This can cause nosebleeds that do not stop, bleeding from cuts or wounds, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and an increased risk of coagulopathy-related bleeding.
Easy bruising and spontaneous bleeding can also occur due to low platelet counts, resulting in gum bleeding and frequent bruising without injury. Bone and joint pain may arise from leukemia cell infiltration, causing pain and swelling in bones and joints. Abdominal fullness or discomfort can occur due to the enlargement of the liver and spleen (hepatosplenomegaly).
Skin involvement is another potential complication, with leukemia cells spreading to the skin and causing tumor-like collections called myeloid sarcoma. Furthermore, compromised immunity due to AML can lead to frequent or unexplained infections, including skin infections.
Managing Complications
People experiencing complications related to AML should contact their doctor immediately. There may be treatment options available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It's essential to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention promptly to ensure the best possible outcomes.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Acute myeloid leukemia (AML). [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-myeloid-leukemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20368289
[2] Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. (2021). Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). [online] Available at: https://www.lls.org/leukemia/acute-myeloid-leukemia/treatment/side-effects-and-complications
[3] American Cancer Society. (2021). Acute myeloid leukemia (AML). [online] Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/acute-myeloid-leukemia/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html
[4] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. [online] Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/leukemia/patient/aml-treatment-pdq
[5] Cancer Research UK. (2021). Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). [online] Available at: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/blood-cancers/acute-myeloid-leukaemia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms
- Other leukemias, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), also pose various neurological complications, mental health implications, and physical health issues, similar to AML.
- Science aims to develop new treatments for chronic diseases like AML by researching the interplay between medical conditions, including neurological disorders and health-and-wellness issues.
- Individuals battling AML must be mindful of the onset of complications not only related to neurological disorders and physical health but also mental health, as the stress and anxiety stemming from the disease may increase the risk of developing mental health issues.
