Leukaemia

Leukaemia is a type of blood cancer that affects the white blood cells. In acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), abnormal white blood cells are produced rapidly in the bone marrow, crowding out healthy blood cells.

This disruption can lead to a reduced ability to fight infections, anaemia and problems with blood clotting. AML can develop at any age but becomes more common in older adults.

Symptoms may include:

Persistent tiredness and pale skin
Frequent or severe infections
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Unexplained weight loss and night sweats

A full blood count (FBC) is often the first test to reveal abnormalities. Changes in white cell counts, including basophils, monocytes and other cell types, can indicate the need for further investigation including a blood film and specialist referral.

Causes of Leukaemia

In most cases, the exact cause of acute myeloid leukaemia is unknown. The disease develops when the DNA in immature blood cells in the bone marrow acquires mutations that cause them to grow and divide uncontrollably instead of maturing into functional white blood cells.

Several factors are known to increase risk:

Age is the strongest risk factor. AML becomes significantly more common over the age of 65
Previous cancer treatment, particularly certain chemotherapy drugs (alkylating agents and topoisomerase inhibitors) and radiotherapy, can damage bone marrow DNA
Exposure to certain chemicals, most notably benzene, which is found in cigarette smoke and some industrial settings
Smoking increases AML risk, partly due to benzene exposure
Pre-existing blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndromes, myeloproliferative disorders and aplastic anaemia can progress to AML
Genetic conditions such as Down syndrome are associated with a higher incidence of AML

AML is not infectious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

Tests that can help check this condition

Learn more on the official NHS page .

Medical review

Dr. Shahzaib Ahmad MBBS, BSc, MRCP, FRCA, FFICM

Clinical Supervisor - Vitall|GMC 7495062|Profile

Dr Shahzaib Ahmad is a Consultant in Intensive Care Medicine with subspecialty experience in cardiac critical care and neurocritical care. He has extensive experience managing complex acute and cardiovascular conditions in hospital intensive care settings. Dr Ahmad supports Vitall in reviewing health content for clinical accuracy and alignment with current medical practice.

Reviewed on 22/05/2026

Next review due 22/05/2027

Review focus: Blood biomarkers, laboratory testing methodology, and biochemical interpretation.

This content has been reviewed for medical and scientific accuracy but does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.