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Acute Monocytic Leukemia – An Overview

Treatment Options for Acute Monocytic Leukemia

Induction Chemotherapy

Induction chemotherapy works by eliminating cancer cells in the body. During this procedure, a high dose of drugs is used to target cancer cells. However, it also kills healthy cells and affects overall health. The effects of this treatment can vary, depending on the overall health and age. Since chemotherapy medications are highly toxic, they may lead to some serious side effects, such as kidney failure or bleeding issues. [6]

Consolidation Therapy

The main goal of consolidation therapy is to detect any remaining undetectable cancer cells in the body. It is done after the initial treatment to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated and to prevent a relapse in the future. This process may combine different options, including a stem cell transplant, radiation therapy, or medications. Healthy and young people tend to get some rounds of high-dose cytarabine, while older people may get lower doses. [7]