Symptoms, signs, and potential triggers of eye issues related to Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. While AML primarily causes symptoms such as fever, weight loss, fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding, and repeated infections, it can also manifest in the eye area, leading to a range of vision-related issues.
Common eye symptoms associated with AML include blurry vision, loss of vision, retinal hemorrhages, cotton wool spots, optic nerve infiltration, and in rare cases, central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) leading to sudden visual loss. These symptoms are caused by various mechanisms related to AML, such as the infiltration of leukemic cells into ocular tissues, bleeding due to low platelet counts, and ischemic events caused by hyperviscosity of the blood or vascular occlusions.
Blurry vision or vision loss can occur if the blood vessels in the eye are involved, often due to bleeding or leukemic infiltration of ocular tissues. Retinal hemorrhages and cotton wool spots are common retinal findings caused by anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukemic infiltration leading to microvascular damage or ischemia. Optic nerve infiltration by leukemic cells may cause visual disturbances, and central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), a rare but severe cause of sudden painless vision loss, can be secondary to hyperviscosity syndrome from increased leukemic cells or thromboembolic events related to AML.
Other possible ophthalmic manifestations include choroidal infiltrates, proptosis, and cranial neuropathies resulting from leukemic infiltration or metabolic abnormalities. These eye symptoms primarily arise due to infiltration of leukemic cells into the eye structures, bleeding and clotting abnormalities caused by low platelet counts, ischemia and infarction from microvascular occlusions or hyperviscosity, and metabolic and mechanical effects related to disease progression.
It is essential to note that about half of people with AML have some type of eye symptoms, with manifestations in the back of the eye being more common than those in the front of the eye. DNA changes are more frequent as people age, making AML more prevalent in older individuals. Many genetic changes are random events that happen without a known cause, but possible causes of acquired genetic changes include exposure to radiation or cancer-causing chemicals.
Eye symptoms can be a sign that a person's cancer has spread, or they may be a side effect of treatments and associated blood abnormalities. If AML spreads to the brain and spinal cord, it can affect the optic nerve and cause swelling of the optic disc. Many AML symptoms are general and are symptoms of many other common conditions. Secondary causes of eye symptoms can be side effects from AML treatments such as chemotherapy, steroids, bone marrow transplant, and total body radiation therapy.
If you are experiencing any vision-related issues or eye symptoms, it is always a good idea to contact a doctor. Prompt ophthalmologic evaluation is important to diagnose these complications and manage vision-threatening events. A doctor can make a diagnosis based on an exam, medical history, and lab tests. AML starts in the bone marrow, where blood cells form, and can quickly spread to the blood and throughout the body.
References:
[1] American Cancer Society. (2021). Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/acute-myeloid-leukemia.html
[2] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/leukemia/patient/aml-treatment-pdq
[3] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Acute Leukemia. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/acute-leukemia-overview
[4] American Cancer Society. (2021). What Are the Risk Factors for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)? Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/acute-myeloid-leukemia/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
[5] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Acute myeloid leukemia (AML): Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-myeloid-leukemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20375081
- Other leukemias beyond AML, such as Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML), also pose potential health risks and require attention from medical professionals.
- In the realm of science, research into therapies and treatments for leukemias has led to advancements in workplace wellness programs, fostering a healthier and more informed workforce.
- Apart from eye-related issues, AML can lead to a multitude of other medical conditions, including chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular health problems.
- For effective management of AML symptoms and related mental health concerns, addressing nutritional needs and adhering to fitness and exercise routines is crucial.
- Skin care is often overlooked in cancer treatments, but it is essential to maintain proper skin care to manage potential side effects such as dryness or rashes.
- Neurological disorders like cognitive impairment may arise as a result of treatments for AML, highlighting the need for holistic approaches in healthcare that address both physical and mental health.
- While CBD oil has shown promise in treating certain types of cancer, its effectiveness against AML remains uncertain, and further research is needed.
- Regular screenings and long-term follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential for monitoring potential complications associated with AML, such as recurrence and secondary cancers.
