Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Advanced Practice Management From Presentation to Cure

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Oncology
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common and often fatal cancer in adults, predominantly affecting the elderly.
• Despite advances, AML prognosis remains poor, especially for those over 65, with low 5-year survival rates.
• Advanced practitioners play a key role in managing AML patients throughout their care journey.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide advanced practitioners with essential knowledge on AML presentations, diagnosis, and treatment.
• To focus on the unique challenges and limited options for elderly AML patients and those with poor performance status.
• To highlight emerging treatment strategies transforming AML care.

Main Methods:

• Review of common presenting signs and symptoms of AML in hospitalized patients.
• Discussion of clinical stability issues and oncologic emergencies.
• Overview of diagnostic evaluations and current treatment options for elderly and frail AML patients.

Main Results:

• AML presents heterogeneously but carries a universally poor prognosis for most.
• The elderly population has historically faced limited treatment options for AML.
• The evolving landscape of AML treatment offers new hope and improved outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Advanced practitioners must be well-versed in AML management, particularly for elderly patients.
• Understanding upfront clinical issues, diagnostic workup, and emerging therapies is critical.
• This review aims to equip APs with the knowledge to manage AML effectively in vulnerable populations.