DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically, morphologically, or cell surface marker confirmed adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) Recurrent or refractory after at least 1 prior induction therapy OR Relapsed after remission of less than 1 year duration Antecedent myelodysplasia that has evolved to AML allowed Ineligible for allogeneic stem cell transplantation or failed prior transplantation No CNS leukemia