​Pathology - Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

​Pathology - Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Down syndrome and exposure to ionizing radiation, benzene, and chemotherapy are considered risk factors. 

Study of the nature and causes of diseases. 
Linked to chromosomal translocations are M3-t(15;17) and M2-t(8:21).
Most commonly observed in individuals in their middle adulthood.
There exist eight subgroups (MO-M7), each linked to a distinct neoplastic myeloid lineage (myelocyte, monocyte, megakaryocyte, erythrocyte) and a particular stage of development.
Medullary tissue within the cavities of bones: The tissue exhibits a high density of cells with abnormal structure; the myeloblasts are unique to this particular subtype; Auer rods, which are granules in the cytoplasm, are particularly prevalent in M3 (acute promyelocytic leukemia).
Peripheral blood smear reveals pancytopenia accompanied by the presence of myeloblasts.

Symptoms and signs 
The individual may experience symptoms such as tiredness, infection, excessive bleeding (including heavy menstrual bleeding and nosebleeds), swelling of the lymph nodes, enlargement of the liver and spleen, and stroke resulting from the blockage of small blood vessels due to a high number of immature white blood cells.

Therapy 
Treatment options for the condition include chemotherapy, bone marrow transplant, and the use of all-trans retinoic acid specifically for cases with the (15;17) translocation in M3 subtype.
The prognosis is moderately positive, with a 60% chance of achieving remission. However, only 25% of these individuals manage to remain free of the disease for a period of 5 years.