Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It occurs when the body produces an excessive number of immature white blood cells, known as myeloblasts, which crowd out healthy blood cells. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding. AML can develop quickly and requires prompt treatment. Common treatment options include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and sometimes stem cell transplants. The exact cause of AML is not fully understood, but certain risk factors, such as previous cancer treatments or exposure to certain chemicals, may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.