The verdict is in. Critter was diagnosed with Acute Myloid Leukemia or from now on just AML.UGH!!! There are two main types of Leukemia, the most common in kids is ALL or Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and AML. Forgive me but I am not a doctor and am still learning about this disease so I am just going to cut and paste a defenition from the American Cancer Societies website.
So here we go:
What Is Acute Myeloid Leukemia?
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) goes by many names, including acute myelocytic leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, acute granulocytic leukemia, and acute non-lymphocytic leukemia. "Acute" means that the leukemia can progress quickly, and if not treated, would probably be fatal in a few months.
AML is a cancer that starts in cells that would normally develop into different types of blood cells. Most cases of AML develop from cells that would turn into white blood cells (other than lymphocytes), but some cases of AML develop in other types of blood-forming cells. The different types of AML are listed in the section, "How is acute myeloid leukemia classified?"
(Acute leukemia that develops in lymphocytes is called acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). For more information on this type of leukemia, see our document, Leukemia -- Acute Lymphocytic.)
AML starts in the bone marrow (the soft inner part of the bones, where new blood cells are made), but in most cases it quickly moves into the blood. It can sometimes spread to other parts of the body including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and testicles (in males).
Other types of cancer can start in these organs and then spread to the bone marrow. But these cancers that start elsewhere and then spread to the bone marrow are not leukemia.
Did it all make sense? It still doesn't to us but we're getting there. For each type of Leukemia there are sub types and stages. To find out the stages they will do an initial bone marrow biopsy and then we'll know in about two weeks how much if any extra treatment is required. We'll talk more about treatments tomorrow.
thankful
6 years ago
When will they know how advanced it is and where it is in his body? Will he have to have a bone marrow transplant?
ReplyDeleteI am so glad you started a blog. It will be nice to keep updated. He looks so sweet in those pictures. We have been praying for your family and praying for good results from the next few tests. Love, Ed and Christa
ReplyDeleteThanks for updating. I think this is a great way to keep everyone up to date on what is going on. He is such a cutee in the hospital crib. You guys just stay tuff and know that so many people care for you and your complete family.
ReplyDeleteJust got the news through the family email communication tree. Your family will be in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteYour family is in our prayers and PLEASE let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
ReplyDeleteI haven't stopped thinking of your family. My heart aches for you. Please know you are in our prayers and let me know if there is anything we can do. Even if its watching your other kids.
ReplyDeleteWish him a happy birthday from us!
ReplyDeletewish we could come sing "Earl" style - but they'd probably kick us out.
We love you!!!
-W & I
Alcohol intake is as it is bad for health and taking it during pregnancy has several side effects, one of them is acute myeloid leukemia. There is a risk of developing AML in unborn baby. One should avoid alcohol in pregnancy. If anyone observes its symptoms,should immediately consult doctor. For more information on it, refer Acute myeloid leukemia
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