Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in children constitute only 15% of all leukemias and is therefore considerably less frequent than acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The diagnosis in suspected haematological malignancy is based on bone marrow aspiration in a specialized centers with morphology, cytometry, cytogenetic and molecular genetic examination, which distinguishes AML from the more common ALL and can divide the subtypes of AML.
In recent years the importance of molecular genetic analysis increases with the aim of finding targeted therapies for individual subtypes of AML. Treatment is based on the short cycle high-dose chemotherapy, thus can be achieved complete remission in 90% of patients, children with high risk of relapse are later indicated for allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in first remission.
Supportive therapy is an important pillar of comprehensive care for patients with AML due to the risk of fatal complications most infectious or bleeding. Despite the very intensive treatment, approximately 30% of children will experience relapse, the treatment of relapse has not reached satisfactory results.
Patients after successful treatment of AML require long term follow up focused on cardiological controls due to the risk of cardiomyopathy after treatment with anthracyclines. Chance to be cured for AML patient in the last 20 years has increased significantly, currently reaches 65-70%, mainly thanks to advances in supportive therapy and bone marrow transplantation.