In a nutshell
This study wanted to find out if a low platelet count at diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) was linked to rates of survival. Researchers found that low platelet count at diagnosis was linked to higher survival in these patients.
Some background
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the bone marrow. It may lead to an abnormal immune system. Platelets are a part of the immune system that help the blood clot. Many but not all patients with AML have low platelet count. It is important to research a link between low platelets and AML survival.
Methods & findings
291 patients with newly diagnosed AML were included in the study. Overall survival and survival without signs disease were assessed. Patients were followed up on average for 17 months.
Low platelet count was linked to better survival (55.1%) after 5 years compared to patients with normal platelet counts (35.3%). Survival without disease was also higher in patients with low platelet counts (49.1%) compared to normal platelet counts (25.7%). Lower platelet counts were also linked with better response to chemotherapy treatment.
The bottom line
The study concluded that a low platelet count at diagnosis was linked to better survival rates for patients with acute myeloid leukemia.
The fine print
This was a small study which looked at old data. Newer and larger data is needed to confirm results.
Published By :
Acta Haematologica
Date :
Jun 05, 2019
