What is the difference between AML and CML? (Just a small correction — CLL is a different type, so this answer focuses on AML vs. CML, both of which are myeloid leukemias.)
AML (Acute Myeloid Leukemia) and CML (Chronic Myeloid Leukemia) both start in the bone marrow and affect myeloid white blood cells, but they behave quite Show Full Answer
What is the difference between AML and CML? (Just a small correction — CLL is a different type, so this answer focuses on AML vs. CML, both of which are myeloid leukemias.)
AML (Acute Myeloid Leukemia) and CML (Chronic Myeloid Leukemia) both start in the bone marrow and affect myeloid white blood cells, but they behave quite differently.
Here's a quick breakdown:
- Speed: AML progresses rapidly and needs fast treatment. CML progresses slowly, often over years.
- Genetic cause: AML involves mutations like FLT3, c-KIT, or RAS. CML is usually caused by the Philadelphia chromosome mutation.
- Treatment: AML is most often treated with chemotherapy. CML is typically treated with targeted drugs called tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
- Classification: AML is grouped into subtypes. CML is divided into three phases — chronic, accelerated, and blast.
- Survival rates: About 30% of people with AML survive five or more years. For CML, that number rises to around 90%. One important note — when CML reaches its blast phase, it can look very similar to AML, making diagnosis tricky. This is why regular monitoring and open communication with your care team is so important.
October 11
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