DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: First bone marrow relapse of primary acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), all subtypes except M3 OR First bone marrow relapse of secondary AML that occurred after other malignancies, but cured, or after alkylating agents and/or radiotherapy, or after myelodysplastic syndrome No previously untreated AML or second or subsequent relapse of AML No isolated extramedullar localization of AML Must have achieved a first complete remission No leukemias after other myeloproliferative diseases