Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment in India

Types of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment India

Some of the types of treatment used to treat acute myeloid leukemia are as follows:

• Chemotherapy
• Targeted Therapy
• Stem Cell Transplantation
• Radiation Therapy
• Supportive Care

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the most common treatment for all types of cancers. Chemotherapy medications kill the cancer cells by limiting their growth. These medications can be given to the patient either by mouth or in the form of injections.

Targeted Therapy

Target therapy involves the use of drugs that attack the specific proteins of cancer cells and kill them. These drugs are also used to treat acute myeloid leukemia by targeting the molecules of cancer cells. 

Stem Cell Transplantation

In this type of treatment, damaged stem cells are replaced with new healthy stem cells that promote the production of new blood cells in the body. This treatment is often used to treat more young patients.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and destroy cancer cells. It is less commonly used in AML but may be used in some situations when leukemia cells have spread to other areas of the body.

Supportive Care

The medicines used to treat acute myeloid leukemia can have adverse side effects. In this case, supportive care is required where blood transfusions, medicines to treat infections, and medications to manage other symptoms are often used to treat the patient as a whole.

Diagnosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment India

Some of the diagnostic methods for AML are described below:

Blood Tests

Blood tests are very important for the diagnosis of AML. The blood tests measure all types of blood cells present in blood and give the idea of their abnormality in structure and function.

Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy

Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are performed to confirm the diagnosis of AML. In this procedure, a sample tissue of bone marrow and a small piece of bone is taken from the hip bone. These samples are examined in the laboratory to assess the number, size, and maturity of blood cells and to identify any abnormality present in cells.

Cytogenetic and Molecular Tests

These types of tests are performed to check for any genetic abnormality present that can be associated with the condition of AML. This test also helps in planning the treatment of an individual patient.

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

In some cases, a lumbar puncture may be performed to check if abnormal cancer cells have spread to the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This is performed to check the extent of cancer cells. 

Imaging Studies

Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans are used to check any tumor present in the bone or any other structure in the body.

Cost of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment in India

The cost of AML treatment in India ranges from 8000 USD to 13000 USD. The cost can vary according to the type of treatment performed on individual patients. The cost can also vary according to the complications of each patient and the need for supportive treatment alongside the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia.

Symptoms and Risk factors

Some of the types of symptoms that occur in acute myeloid leukemia are as follows:

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• Frequent infections
• Unexplained bruising or bleeding
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Bone pain
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Enlarged spleen
• Anemia
• Fatigue
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Easy bruising
• Small red or purple dots on the skin
• Mouth sores
• Loss of appetite
• Night sweats
• Joint pain
• Headaches

Risk Factors of Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Some of the risk factors of acute myeloid leukemia are:

Age

Acute myeloid leukemia is more common in older adults. The risk of developing AML increases with age. It is rarely present in young age and children.

Previous Cancer Treatment

People who had treatment for cancer previously are at more risk of developing AML. For example, people who undergo chemotherapy and radiation therapy are at greater risk.

Exposure to Certain Chemicals

Some chemicals are harmful and long-term exposure to these chemicals due to occupation can also increase the risk of developing AML.

Smoking

Smoking tobacco is associated with an increased risk of developing AML. The harmful chemicals in smoking can affect the function of blood cells and destroy them.

Genetic Syndromes

Certain genetic conditions are associated with a higher risk of AML. People with genetic disorders have specific genetic abnormalities that can also increase the risk of genetic mutation of stem cells.

Family History

There is a positive correlation between family history and the development of Acute myeloid leukemia. However, the chances remain very low.

Blood Disorders

People who are suffering from some blood disorders can also increase the risk of AML. Blood disorders produce abnormal blood cells that can develop into the condition of AML.

Previous Chemotherapy

Some chemotherapy drugs that are used to treat other cancers can increase the risk of developing AML.

Gender

AML is more common in the male population than in females. The reason for the difference is not known.