acute myeloid leukemia

Definition of acute myeloid leukemia

acute myeloid leukemia (uh-KYOOT MY-eh-loyd loo-KEE-mee-uh): A fast-growing cancer in which too many myeloblasts (a type of immature white blood cell) are found in the bone marrow and blood. Acute myeloid leukemia usually gets worse quickly if it is not treated. It can spread outside the blood to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, spleen, liver, central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), skin, gums, and testicles. Acute myeloid leukemia is most common in older adults. Also called acute myelogenous leukemia, acute nonlymphocytic leukemia, AML, and ANLL.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms