Ninja Nerds,
Welcome to the Ninja Nerd Podcast with Zach and Rob! In this episode, we dive deep into Acute Leukemias, breaking down their pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management. We explore the key differences between Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), focusing on the genetic mutations, risk factors, and cellular mechanisms driving these malignancies. Our discussion includes high-yield diagnostic approaches such as peripheral blood smear, bone marrow biopsy, flow cytometry, and cytogenetic analysis. We also cover essential treatment strategies, including induction chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), while highlighting critical complications like tumor lysis syndrome and leukostasis. This episode is packed with clinically relevant insights and board exam pearls—tune in and support us below!