Acute Myeloid Leukemia Causes

There is ongoing research into the causes of acute myelogenous leukaemia; however, it is not known for sure what causes it.

A number of risk factors for developing AML have been identified. They include the following:

 Pre-existing myelodysplastic or myeloproliferative syndromes can evolve into AML; the exact risk depends on the type of MDS/MPS.

Exposure to chemotherapy, in particular alkylating agents, can increase the risk for the subsequent development of AML. The risk is highest about 3-5 years after chemotherapy. Other chemotherapy agents, specifically epipodophyllotoxins and anthracyclines, have also been associated with treatment-related leukemia.

Ionizing radiation exposure can increase the risk of AML. Survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki had an increased rate of AML[2], as did radiologists exposed to high levels of X-rays prior to the advent of modern radiation safety.[3]

Occupational chemical exposure to benzene and other organic solvents is controversial as a cause of AML. Benzene and many of its derivatives are known to be carcinogenic in vitro. While some studies have suggested a link between occupational exposure and increased risk of leukemia, others have suggested that the attributable risk, if any, is slight.

Several congenital conditions may increase the risk of leukemia; the most common is probably Down syndrome, which is associated with a 10- to 18-fold increase in the risk of AML.[4]
 

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