There are no known environmental exposures or inherited traits that cause BPDCN. However, doctors have identified some genetic changes that are common in people with BPDCN and some biomarkers that can help guide treatment. 

The most common genetic mutations found in people with BPDCN occur in the TET2 gene, which acts as a tumor suppressor. When this gene mutates, its normal function is impaired, making it less effective at protecting cells from developing into cancer. A recent study suggests that UV damage from the sun could affect the genetic changes to the TET2 gene and the development of BPDCN, but research is ongoing to understand more.

Which markers help doctors identify BPDCN?

Doctors use a specific combination of markers found on the surface of cancer cells to diagnose BPDCN. These markers help distinguish BPDCN from other blood cancers.

BPDCN cells typically show three key markers:

• CD123
• CD4
• CD56

Additional markers, such as TCL1, TCF4, and CD303, can also help confirm the diagnosis. This unique pattern allows doctors to make a clear and accurate identification of the disease.

Why these markers matter for BPDCN treatment

Understanding BPDCN markers has improved diagnosis and can also help guide treatment. For example, tagraxofusp (Elzonris), the first FDA-approved therapy for BPDCN, specifically targets CD123, one of the key markers found on BPDCN cells.

Explore the HealthTree University unit to learn more about the basics of genetics and cancer tumor biology, this will allow you to understand further treatment advances that now focus on targeting specific genes. 

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