Myeloid cells are a type of immature white blood cell that forms in the bone marrow. These cells eventually turn into platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells. But sometimes, there can be a genetic disturbance in myeloid cell production. This can cause an overproduction of myeloid cells that become cancerous and spread throughout the body. Acute and chronic myeloid leukemia are two myeloid disorders that affect white blood cell formation.
Regional Cancer Care Associates provides comprehensive, cutting-edge treatment of myeloid cell disorders at more than 20 locations across New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C. area. RCCA’s physicians and other medical professionals dedicate themselves to providing warm and responsive care to every patient. Learn more about myeloid (white blood cell) disorder diagnosis and treatment at Regional Cancer Care Associates.
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Acute myeloid leukemia is a serious white blood cell disorder that develops in the bone marrow. Because it is acute, the patient’s condition can quickly become worse. This disease develops because of a mutation in the DNA of bone marrow cells. Cells typically grow and die at a designated time. However, acute myeloid leukemia causes these cells to grow in abundance. Eventually, they turn into leukemic white blood cells, multiply across the body, and destroy healthy blood cells.
Symptoms of acute myeloid leukemia can be mistaken for those of common infections, like the flu. Patients with this type of myeloid disorder often experience the following signs:
Chronic myeloid leukemia is caused by a genetic mutation in myeloid cells. With it is similar to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in this respect, it differs from AML in that it progresses slowly. Chronic myeloid leukemia stems from the presence of Philadelphia chromosomes in myeloid cells. These chromosomes can appear in adults for no apparent reason and can cause blood cells to overproduce. In chronic myeloid leukemia, myeloid cells turn into chronic leukemia cells. As they overproduce, they can enter the bloodstream and reach other organs.
Many patients with chronic myeloid leukemia won’t experience any symptoms. That’s why many patients are diagnosed with the disease after having a blood test for another reason. However, some patients may present with symptoms, such as:
Based on the severity of a patient’s condition, chronic myeloid leukemia is categorized as being in one of three different phases: chronic, accelerated, and blast.
The evaluation of potential CML includes a thorough history and comprehensive medical examination, as well as tests, such as:
If a doctor believes a patient has acute myeloid leukemia, the physician may conduct additional evaluations, such as a spinal tap. Physicians also may test patients for the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome.
Doctors typically prescribe treatment to destroy the abnormal blood cells that are causing harmful overproduction of cells. There are many treatment options for myeloid disorders, including:
Regional Cancer Care Associates is here to provide the latest in care to patients with myeloid disorders. With more than 20 offices across NJ, CT, MD, as well as the Washington D.C. area, patients can easily access cutting-edge, compassionate care. To learn more about myeloid disorder diagnosis and treatment, contact us today.
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