Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia C0023487
A fast-growing blood cancer where abnormal white blood cells accumulate in the bone marrow and blood. Most often diagnosed in middle-aged adults. Treatment with specialized drugs has significantly improved outcomes for many patients.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- C92.40, C92.41, C92.42
- ICD-11
- 2A00.0
- Body system
- hematologic
- Severity
- critical
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Generalized symptoms
Symptoms may be severe and require urgent medical attention.
Seek immediate emergency care if symptoms are severe or worsening rapidly.
Severe headache
Fatigue
(general)Bleeding gums
(hematologic)Petechiae
(hematologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
All-Trans Retinoic Acid (ATRA)
ATRA induces differentiation of malignant promyelocytes into mature cells and is the cornerstone of APL treatment, typically combined with other agents for optimal outcomes.
Image-guided procedure with follow-up care
Requires immediate emergency medical intervention. Do not delay treatment.
Arsenic Trioxide Therapy
Arsenic trioxide is highly effective in APL and works by inducing apoptosis of malignant cells, often used in combination with ATRA for newly diagnosed or relapsed disease.
Additional treatment options
Coagulopathy Management
APL causes severe bleeding diathesis; close monitoring of coagulation parameters and proactive replacement of fibrinogen and platelets is essential to prevent fatal hemorrhage.
monitoringConsolidation Chemotherapy
Additional chemotherapy cycles are administered following induction to consolidate remission and eliminate minimal residual disease, ensuring durable responses.
medicationLumbar Puncture with Intrathecal Therapy
For patients with evidence of CNS involvement, lumbar puncture with intrathecal chemotherapy is performed to prevent or treat central nervous system relapse.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Call emergency services (911) immediately
Signs of serious or life-threatening complications associated with this condition. Immediate medical evaluation is required.
Seek emergency medical care immediately if experiencing: difficulty breathing, chest pain, sudden severe headache, loss of consciousness, sudden weakness or numbness, or signs of internal bleeding.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia C0023487?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia. Version 2.2024.
Lo-Coco F, Cicconi L, Breccia M. Acute promyelocytic leukemia: historical perspective and current concepts. Blood. 2021;137(18):2453-2462.
Zhu HH, Huang XJ. Oral arsenic and retinoic acid for high-risk acute promyelocytic leukemia. J Clin Oncol. 2020;38(8):808-815.
Yang J, Zhang W, Wang X. Meta-analysis of arsenic trioxide-based therapy in acute promyelocytic leukemia: efficacy and safety outcomes. Leukemia. 2022;36(7):1821-1830.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia C0023487. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy