Advancing AML Treatment

The National Clinical Guideline for Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML) have been developed by and for the Australian haematology community to provide evidence-based, expert-driven treatment recommendations.

This guideline supports clinicians in delivering high-quality, standardised AML care across Australia. Developed in collaboration with leading haematologists, infectious diseases specialists, and key haematology organisations, they align with NHMRC standards to improve consistency in care and ensure treatment decisions are informed by the latest evidence to improve patient outcomes.

The development of this guidelines was identified as a priority in the National Strategic Action Plan for Blood Cancer, which highlighted the need for national standards in AML treatment. AML is a complex and aggressive blood cancer with historically low survival rates, making access to evidence-based, best-practice care critical.

With funding from the Department of Health and Aged Care, the Blood Cancer Taskforce partnered with the Haematology Society of Australia and New Zealand (HSANZ) and the Leukaemia Foundation to establish these guidelines. The goal is to reduce inconsistencies in clinical practice and support equitable access to optimal care for all Australians diagnosed with AML.

This guidelines was developed under the guidance of an Expert Governance Group, an Expert Working Group (EWG), and an Infectious Diseases (ID) Subcommittee. Their combined expertise ensures the recommendations reflect both rigorous clinical evidence and practical considerations relevant to the Australian healthcare system.

• Provide standardised, evidence-based recommendations to improve patient outcomes
  
• Align with Australian healthcare settings, ensuring compatibility with local treatment access and regulatory approvals
  
• Reduce unwarranted variation in care, supporting consistent best-practice approaches across different clinical settings
  
• Developed through collaboration with leading haematologists and infectious diseases specialists, ensuring clinical relevance and rigour
  

The guideline offers clear, evidence-based recommendations for the treatment and management of AML in Australian clinical settings.

• Practical treatment pathways tailored for Australian clinicians
  
• Guidance on pharmaceutical treatment strategies, including induction, consolidation, and maintenance therapy
  
• Expert-driven antimicrobial prophylaxis recommendations to support infection management in AML patients
  
• Considerations for treatment access and limitations, including challenges related to drug approvals and emerging therapies
  
• Insights into real-world challenges, such as navigating treatment accessibility and evolving clinical evidence
  

• Treatment access: Some recommended AML treatments currently require individual hospital approval, leading to variation in availability.For example, CPX-351 and gemtuzumab ozogamicinare not currently PBS-funded for inpatient use.
  
• Evolving evidence: Due to the limited availability of randomised controlled trials in AML, some recommendations are based on expert consensus and observational data. This is particularly relevant in antimicrobial prophylaxis, where further research is needed to strengthen future guidance.
  
• Scope: This guidelines primarily focuses on pharmaceutical treatment strategies and do not cover all aspects of AML management, such as allogeneic transplantation decision-making. Clinicians are encouraged to refer eligible patients early to transplant services and consult additional resources, such as the ELN 2022 recommendations, for further guidance.
  

Version 1. of the Australian National AML Clinical Guidelines, published in February 2025, reflects the latest evidence, with future updates planned pending funding availability.

This Australian National clinical guideline for AML are intended for use by medical professionals only and do not replace independent clinical judgment.

The guideline is based on the best available evidence at the time of publication and are intended to support, rather than dictate, clinical decision-making. They provide general guidance rather than prescriptive treatment protocols.

Neither HSANZ, the Leukaemia Foundation, the Blood Cancer Taskforce, nor the expert groups assume responsibility for clinical decisions based on these recommendations.

For patients and families seeking medical information, please refer to the Optimal Care Pathway for AML and consult with your healthcare provider.

This guideline is intended for healthcare professionals only. By proceeding, you confirm that you are a medical professional and have read the disclaimer.