Kidney Failure and Abdominal Discomfort as Initial Signs of Extramedullary Acute Myelogenous Leukemia.

Abstract

Although rare, acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) can include extramedullary manifestations, sometimes presenting as a solid tumor called a myeloid sarcoma. Myeloid sarcoma can be the cause of the initial presenting complaint before AML diagnosis, or may be detected as a sign of disease-relapse after treatment. Here, we report a case in which the initial presentation included abdominal discomfort and signs of kidney failure. Further investigation revealed signs of unilateral hydronephrosis. Due to a diagnostic delay, the patient was diagnosed with AML with extramedullary manifestation only after the development of full-blown leukemia. Biopsy of the compressive tumor confirmed an extramedullary myeloid sarcoma, and [18F]-FDG-PET/CT proved useful for patient diagnosis and follow-up. This case report illustrates the importance of thorough examination and diagnosis, as a serious underlying disease with a rare cause can debut with an unusual presentation.

• Authors: Peter Ferkis Steinfeld, Thomas Knoop, Linn Hereide Trovik, Hilde Kollsete Gjelberg, Torjan Magne Haslerud, Håkon Reikvam
• Journal: Clinics and practice (Clin Pract) Vol. 11 Issue 3 Pg. 459-466 (Jul 22 2021) ISSN: 2039-7275 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 34449553 (Publication Type: Case Reports)