Questions to ask: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
Diagnosis
- What type of AML do I have? Is it APL?
- What did my gene tests show? Do I have FLT3, NPM1, IDH1, IDH2, or TP53 changes?
- When will all my gene results be back, and will they change my treatment?
- What is my risk group, and what does it mean for me?
- Am I fit enough for intensive chemotherapy, or is a lower-intensity treatment better for me?
- What is the goal of my treatment: cure, control, or comfort?
- Should I be treated at a center with a leukemia and transplant program?
- Should my brothers and sisters be tested as possible stem cell donors?
- Is there a clinical trial that fits me?
- Is there time to save sperm or eggs before treatment?
- What should my family know right now?
Before
- Which drugs will I get, and why this plan for me?
- Will I stay in the hospital? For how long?
- Will I need a central line or port?
- What side effects are most likely, and which ones should I call about right away?
- Which medicines will I take to prevent infections?
- How often will I need blood or platelet transfusions?
- Will I be able to work, drive, or care for others during treatment?
- What should my caregiver watch for at home?
- Can I keep taking my other medicines and supplements?
- Who can help with costs, insurance, and travel?
- Is a stem cell transplant likely to be part of my plan?
During
- Am I in remission?
- Was MRD checked, and what does the result mean?
- Are my blood counts safe for the next round?
- Do I need a transplant in first remission, or can I skip it?
- Has a donor been found? What kind of donor would I have?
- Should I take maintenance treatment after this phase?
- How long will I take venetoclax each month, and can the schedule change?
- Is it safe to be around children, pets, or crowds right now?
- What foods should I avoid while my counts are low?
- Who do I call after hours, and when should I go to the emergency room?
After
- How often will I need blood tests or bone marrow tests?
- What signs could mean the leukemia is coming back?
- If AML comes back, what would the next options be?
- Which vaccines do I need, and when?
- What long-term effects should I watch for after chemotherapy or transplant?
- When can I go back to work, travel, or my usual activities?
- Do I still need medicines to prevent infection or GVHD?
- What can I do to stay as strong and healthy as possible?
- Are there support groups or counseling for me and my family?
- Should my family members have any testing?
Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.