Staging and Classification of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia

Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia (JMML) is a rare and serious form of childhood leukemia. Unlike other types of leukemia, JMML does not have a standard staging system. This is because the disease does not typically form tumors that can be measured or spread in a way that can be easily categorized. Instead, the severity of JMML is usually determined by specific symptoms, the child's age at diagnosis, and the results of laboratory tests.

Classification of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia

JMML is classified based on genetic and molecular characteristics. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies JMML as a myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm. This classification is based on the presence of certain genetic mutations, such as mutations in the PTPN11, NRAS, CBL, or KRAS genes. Additionally, some children with JMML have neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a genetic disorder that increases the risk of developing certain cancers, including JMML.

Phases of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia

While there is no formal staging system for JMML, the disease can be thought of as having two phases: chronic and advanced. The chronic phase is characterized by symptoms such as fever, rash, and an enlarged spleen or liver. During this phase, the leukemia cells are primarily found in the bone marrow and blood. The advanced phase, also known as accelerated or blast phase, is when the leukemia cells spread to other parts of the body, such as the skin, lungs, or intestines. This phase is associated with more severe symptoms and a poorer prognosis.

Want to Learn More About Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia?

Keep reading HealthTree for Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia's 101 pages!

• What Is Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia?
• How Is Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia Diagnosed?
• How Long Will I Live With Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia?
• What Are Treatments For Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia?