The Importance of Subtype Testing
 
Why is it important for someone with AML to know what type of AML she or he has?
Dr. Rami Komrokji

In certain cases, the distinction between primary AML and secondary AML is straightforward, such as if a patient has a history of MDS or exposure to chemotherapy for other diseases. In other cases, patients may not have a history of prior hematological diseases.1,4,5,11

In this case, we would review the patient’s history and prior blood counts, and obtain further testing including a bone marrow biopsy as well as cell makeup, which can help us determine whether the AML is primary or secondary.2

It is very important to identify whether patients have primary or secondary AML because treatment strategy is tailored accordingly.