Myelogenous leukemia symptoms are often ones that occur in individuals at almost any age. However, acute myelomogenous leukemia--also known as AML--is more likely to occur in older individuals, particularly when compared to juvenile AML statistics. There are two different types of myelogenous leukemia: acute and chronic. Both types of cancer affect the blood and circulatory system. Leukemia is a cancer that specifically affects the white blood cells and the development of mature white cells that help fight illness such as bacterial infections.
Acute versus Chronic
Acute myelogenous leukemia is more likely to affect individuals who are older than 60. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CLM) can occur at any age, but tends to affect younger individuals. According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, CLM is a slow-moving and chronic cancer condition that affects immature lymphocytes (white blood cells), preventing them from effectively fighting infections and illnesses. Acute myelogenous leukemia is a fast-moving and devastating form of cancer that quickly moves to destroy white blood cells as they develop and turn them into cells that spread the cancer throughout the body through the circulatory system.
Fatigue
According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, both types of cancer often results in feelings of exhaustion and fatigue. Everyday activities like going grocery shopping, playing games or outdoor activities may leave a patient feeling extremely tired and worn out. Additionally, patients often feel down or out of sorts because of low energy.
Anemia
Patients may seem to develop a paleness which is due to lack of red blood cells or anemia. The cancer attacks the body's ability to develop healthy red blood cells. According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, anemia is often diagnosed after blood tests that indicate a lowered red blood cell count or low hemoglobin count. Anemia can also result in less ability to fight off infections and low energy levels.
Abdominal Discomfort
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society notes that individuals with myelogenous leukemia symptoms may feel discomfort in their abdomen from enlargement of the spleen. The spleen serves as a secondary repository for blood cells as part of the immune system. With myelogenous leukemia symptoms, the spleen becomes compromised and is enlarged and swollen. Individuals may feel pain and bloating as a result, particularly when the abdomen is pressed or palpated upon examination.
Generalized Symptoms
Generalized myelogenous leukemia symptoms include fever, excessive sweating, night sweats, loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss. Although many of these symptoms are common to a wide variety of different kinds of ailments, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society suggests that these symptoms in combination with any of the above symptoms should be cause for concern and should be examined by a doctor. While leukemia is not an overwhelmingly prevalent condition, it is a serious and potentially life threatening illness.
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