.

About Cancer

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a type of blood cancer that starts from young white blood cells called granulocytes or monocytes in the bone marrow.

Adults and children can get AML, but it is most often diagnosed in older people. Chemotherapy is the main treatment, you might also have a bone marrow or stem cell transplant.

Last reviewed: 25 Sept 2023

Next review due: 25 Sept 2026

Page Credits: 

This section is written, reviewed and updated by Cancer Research UK’s Patient Information Web Team. Thanks to the expert medical professionals and people affected by cancer who have helped to review this information.

  • Dr Eleni Ladikou (Haematology Specialty Trainee and Honorary Lecturer in Haematology)

  • our lay reviewers

The Dangoor Education logo.

Dangoor Education

About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education

Patient Information Forum. Trusted Information Creator.
Plain English Campaign award.

Help and Support

An icon of a hand shake.

Find a Clinical Trial

Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.

An icon of two speech bubbles, indicating a conversation.

Cancer Chat forum

Connect with other people affected by cancer and share your experiences.

An icon of a landline phone.

Nurse helpline

Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.