For some people, acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) does come back after treatment, which is known as a recurrence. It may be found in the bone marrow again or, for men, leukaemia cells may also be found in the testicles. Having regular check-ups means tests may find a recurrence before there are symptoms. Finding a recurrence early offers the best chance for successful treatment.
If you have a recurrence, further treatment can usually control the leukaemia and may lead to a second remission. You may be offered different chemotherapy drugs or a stem cell transplant.
Listen to our podcasts on Managing Fear and Making Treatment Decisions.
More resources
A/Prof John Moore (Conjoint UNSW), Senior Staff Specialist Haematology, Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Kinghorn Cancer Centre, St Vincent’s Hospital; Glynda Blomson, Consumer; Kevin Bloom, Senior Social Worker, Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, Royal North Shore Hospital; Sharon Frazer, Consumer; Prof Angela Hong, Radiation Oncologist, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, and Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney; Yvonne King, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council NSW; Karen Maddock, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Haematology, Westmead Hospital.
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