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Acute Myeloid Leukemia Masquerading as Decompensated Cirrhosis
Hardeep S Ahdi1, Seetharam Mannem1, Asif Lakha2
1Internal Medicine, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, Park Ridge, USA.
Cureus
|September 5, 2022
Summary
This case highlights acute myeloid leukemia (AML) mimicking decompensated cirrhosis in a patient with alcoholic cirrhosis. Early consideration of hematological causes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
Background:
- Decompensated cirrhosis often presents with anemia, thrombocytopenia, renal failure, and confusion.
- These symptoms can overlap with hematological malignancies, complicating diagnosis.
Observation:
- A patient with alcoholic cirrhosis presented with unresponsiveness, severe anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure.
- Initial assessment suggested decompensated cirrhosis, but further investigation revealed acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Findings:
- Peripheral smear showed myeloblasts, and bone marrow biopsy confirmed 38% myeloblasts, indicative of AML.
- The patient's presentation mimicked decompensated cirrhosis due to overlapping clinical features.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering hematological causes, such as AML, in patients with cirrhosis exhibiting profound anemia and other critical symptoms.
- Differentiating AML from decompensated cirrhosis is vital for appropriate management and improved patient outcomes.
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