Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) accounts for approximately 80% of adult leukemia cases. It is characterized by the overproduction of immature “blast cells” in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, resulting in ineffective blood cell production and bone marrow failure.
AML isn't a singular disease but encompasses various subtypes influenced by particular genetic abnormalities. Specific tests like FISH, cytogenetic testing, and next-generation sequencing pinpoint your AML type, revealing chromosomal changes and genetic mutations that cause AML growth.
Knowing your AML-specific genetics significantly impacts treatment decisions. AML specialists tailor treatments based on subtypes, which enhances personalized care.
In the past, the French-American-British system classified AML into eight subtypes, M0 to M7, based on how the cells looked under the microscope.
In 2016, the WHO classification was developed to consider genetics and the origin of AML. Using both classifications can help doctors see the whole picture of AML individualities and strategize the best treatment options.
AML is known by physicians for having many different mutations, and the genetic mapping is usually complex. This classification includes specific types of chromosomal changes and mutations, such as:
RUNX1, KMT2A, MECOM, CBFB-MYH11 fusion, DEK-NUP214 fusion, RBM15-MRTFA fusion, BCR-ABL1 fusion, NUP98, NPM1 and CEBPA
No prior chemotherapy or radiation to treat a solid tumor or different cancer type. Commonly seen in older patients, characterized by abnormalities in tissue cells and high blast percentages. Occurring in patients with a prior history of:
Linked to prior chemotherapy or radiation exposure, Approximately 10% of all AML cases arise after a patient's exposure to chemotherapy and/or radiation for a primary cancer or autoimmune disease. Some agents linked to this type of AML are:
Cases of AML that are not classified into any of the other categories are classified as AML, not otherwise specified. This category classifies AML based on how cells look in the microscope, cell chemistry, and antibodies expressed by leukemia cells.
A solid tumor of abnormal, immature bone marrow cells (blasts) occurs outside the bone marrow. It’s equivalent to a diagnosis of AML and can anticipate or overlap with it.
Patients with Down syndrome have an increased risk of leukemia due to the abnormal bone marrow cell production associated with the genetic abnormalities of Down syndrome. Most cases linked to Down syndrome are acute megakaryoblastic leukemia.
This category includes transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM), a disorder of newborns with Down syndrome. It presents with AML findings 3 to 7 days after birth. Most newborns have spontaneous remission, but others develop AML after 1 to 3 years.
Most cases linked to Down syndrome are acute megakaryoblastic leukemia.
In Down syndrome, there are distinctive genetic abnormalities, like trisomy 21; an extra arm in chromosome 21. Additionally, mutations of gene GATA1 are characteristic of AML associated with Down syndrome.
Mutations are important in AML because they can control AML aggressiveness and treatment response and dictate prognoses and treatment approaches. However, more factors determine AML subtypes:
Understanding your AML type and classification will allow you to look for updates, learn about your disease course, and, alongside your AML specialist, create strategies that improve treatment outcomes.
If you are interested in comprehensive AML 101 articles, locating an AML specialist, or staying informed about updates on AML with a biweekly newsletter, you can create a free HealthTree Cure Hub account, a platform that powers life-saving research!
Sources
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) accounts for approximately 80% of adult leukemia cases. It is characterized by the overproduction of immature “blast cells” in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, resulting in ineffective blood cell production and bone marrow failure.
AML isn't a singular disease but encompasses various subtypes influenced by particular genetic abnormalities. Specific tests like FISH, cytogenetic testing, and next-generation sequencing pinpoint your AML type, revealing chromosomal changes and genetic mutations that cause AML growth.
Knowing your AML-specific genetics significantly impacts treatment decisions. AML specialists tailor treatments based on subtypes, which enhances personalized care.
In the past, the French-American-British system classified AML into eight subtypes, M0 to M7, based on how the cells looked under the microscope.
In 2016, the WHO classification was developed to consider genetics and the origin of AML. Using both classifications can help doctors see the whole picture of AML individualities and strategize the best treatment options.
AML is known by physicians for having many different mutations, and the genetic mapping is usually complex. This classification includes specific types of chromosomal changes and mutations, such as:
RUNX1, KMT2A, MECOM, CBFB-MYH11 fusion, DEK-NUP214 fusion, RBM15-MRTFA fusion, BCR-ABL1 fusion, NUP98, NPM1 and CEBPA
No prior chemotherapy or radiation to treat a solid tumor or different cancer type. Commonly seen in older patients, characterized by abnormalities in tissue cells and high blast percentages. Occurring in patients with a prior history of:
Linked to prior chemotherapy or radiation exposure, Approximately 10% of all AML cases arise after a patient's exposure to chemotherapy and/or radiation for a primary cancer or autoimmune disease. Some agents linked to this type of AML are:
Cases of AML that are not classified into any of the other categories are classified as AML, not otherwise specified. This category classifies AML based on how cells look in the microscope, cell chemistry, and antibodies expressed by leukemia cells.
A solid tumor of abnormal, immature bone marrow cells (blasts) occurs outside the bone marrow. It’s equivalent to a diagnosis of AML and can anticipate or overlap with it.
Patients with Down syndrome have an increased risk of leukemia due to the abnormal bone marrow cell production associated with the genetic abnormalities of Down syndrome. Most cases linked to Down syndrome are acute megakaryoblastic leukemia.
This category includes transient abnormal myelopoiesis (TAM), a disorder of newborns with Down syndrome. It presents with AML findings 3 to 7 days after birth. Most newborns have spontaneous remission, but others develop AML after 1 to 3 years.
Most cases linked to Down syndrome are acute megakaryoblastic leukemia.
In Down syndrome, there are distinctive genetic abnormalities, like trisomy 21; an extra arm in chromosome 21. Additionally, mutations of gene GATA1 are characteristic of AML associated with Down syndrome.
Mutations are important in AML because they can control AML aggressiveness and treatment response and dictate prognoses and treatment approaches. However, more factors determine AML subtypes:
Understanding your AML type and classification will allow you to look for updates, learn about your disease course, and, alongside your AML specialist, create strategies that improve treatment outcomes.
If you are interested in comprehensive AML 101 articles, locating an AML specialist, or staying informed about updates on AML with a biweekly newsletter, you can create a free HealthTree Cure Hub account, a platform that powers life-saving research!
Sources
about the author
Jimena Vicencio
Jimena is an International Medical Graduate and a member of the HealthTree Writing team. She has a passion for languages and is currently learning Japanese. In her free time, she loves playing with her cats. Jimena is also pursuing a bachelor's degree in journalism.
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