Determining the AML subtype is an important factor in treatment planning for your child. This determination is made based on certain features of the leukemia cells identified with the diagnostic tests. The doctor will speak with you about the drugs and “treatment protocols” (detailed plans of treatments and procedures) that are indicated based on your child’s AML subtype.
World Health Organization (WHO) Classification System
The World Health Organization (WHO) classification is the main system used to classify AML into subtypes. The subtypes of AML are based on the genetic abnormalities (gene or chromosome changes) in the myeloblasts (leukemia cells) and the percentage of myeloblasts in the bone and marrow and blood.
The table below is based on the World Health Organization (WHO) classification.
Classification of AML with Percentage of Blasts Required for Diagnosis
Related Links
- Download or order LLS's free booklets:
- Caring for Kids and Adolescents with Blood Cancer: A Workbook for Families
- Childhood Blood Cancer