Acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive, rare, and heterogeneous neoplasm that can occur de novo or secondary to a preceding MDS or MPN. Risk stratification and treatment decisions are based upon age, performance status, and genetic abnormalities. Current management options include aggressive supportive care, intensive chemotherapy, hypomethylating agents, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Relapse rates and mortality remain high. Current research is focused on improved prognostication and risk stratification as well as the development of novel therapeutics. Targeted agents directed towards specific genetic mutations in AML are currently in clinical trials and early results are promising.