What is the worst form of leukemia?

Leukemia, a term that represents several different types of blood cancer, can be disheartening to anyone diagnosed with it. However, some forms are worse than others depending on their rate of progression and severity of symptoms. In this article, we will explore the worst form of leukemia- acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in detail.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Acute Myeloid Leukemia or AML is a type of cancer that affects white blood cells called “myeloid” cells found in bone marrow(a spongy tissue inside bones). AML hinders the normal functioning ability of these healthy cells by producing abnormal ones at a rapid pace(That’s right! You can never win against AML). AML progresses quickly and fatally if left untreated as opposed to other types which might take years to progress.

Symptoms

Like most cancers, symptoms associated with AML depend on various factors such as age and health status. The following are some common signs:

• Fatigue
• Shortness Of Breath
• Weight loss
• Weakness
• Anemia( deficiency in red blood cell count)
• Fever

It’s worth noting that early detection plays an essential role in developing successful treatment plans for managing any stage of diabetes (Wait! Is it Diabetes or Leukemia? See, I told you about complications).

Causes

The exact reason someone develops AML is unclear( Talk about mystery disease), but research suggests prolonged exposure(to radiation or chemicals such as benzene) may make one more susceptible. Other risk factors include:

• Genetic abnormalities

• Runs in families

• Having undergone chemotherapy previously

• Pre-existing Blood disorder.

  You got caught sniffing Benzene again didn’t you?

It does not occur because people eat too much sugar or have high-fat diets, no need to self-blame.

Diagnosis

AML can be difficult to diagnose since some of its symptoms are similar to other medical conditions. Patients with such symptoms should undergo several tests and physical examinations (AKA a bunch of poking) by qualified doctors (Better than playing guessing games with your health though). A medical professional might suggest any or all of the following diagnostic methods:

• Blood Tests
• Bone marrow biopsy

You know what they say,’ better safe than sorry’. Get yourself checked today!

Treatment

The goal for treating AML is primarily curative; however, it’s impossible for some patients(My condolences) because it progresses fast through their bodies. The general treatment plan involves:
Chemotherapy
Stem cell transplant

But as you may know none fits all size so each patient receives individualized treatment albeit within this standard framework.

Why Is It The Worst?

Everyone has unique experiences in dealing with leukemia, but when we specifically look at how acute myeloid leukemia makes things worse for everyone caught up in her net health-wise(so mainstream using ‘him’ always I will stick to “Her” now on ), here are some reasons why:

Lack Of Symptoms

Unlike other malignancies that cause visible physical changes(a bump), having no signs does not mean someone is cancer-free—most people diagnosed with AML do not show any abnormalities until the disease advances into an advanced stage destroying nearby organs creating unbearable pain(very merciful). Thus early screening becomes important where indicated.

#### Quick Worsening

Like watching an unraveling horror movie plot(Aka final destinationTM), every minute spent waiting compounds the severity and progression rate of AML which translates poor survival rates. Because time drastically affects its prognosis… 𝕥𝕙𝕖☠️🅼🆄🆅𝕣🅰

Treatment Side Effects

As with every treatment, chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation can leave one feeling fatigue, mentally confused ,Hair loss even nauseated(Paints a pretty picture doesn’t it?). More so when the person is past their prime years.

One cannot downplay getting diagnosed with AML. It’s your right to feel frustrated or angry about how life puts such unfair cards on your table. However speaking plainly early diagnosis becomes an upper hand in fighting against leukemia of any kind but especially for those affected by acute myeloid leukemia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there exist different types of Leukemia; however, acute myeloid leukemia presents as the worst one due to its rapid progression once untreated, lack of early symptoms(ghosting) making people miss an opportunity to nip it before complications arise(sneaky little leukaemic cells), and a sub-standard quality of life during treatments(a lose-lose situation). Always remember that irrespective what comes our way, Courage never quits!