Genetic Testing in the Diagnosis and Biology of Acute Leukemia.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES\nThe 2017 Workshop of the Society for Hematopathology/European Association for Haematopathology examined the role of molecular genetics in the diagnosis and biology of acute leukemia.\n\n\nMETHODS\nAcute leukemias were reviewed in two sessions: Genetic Testing in Diagnosis of Acute Leukemias (53 cases) and Genetics Revealing the Biology of Acute Leukemias (41 cases).\n\n\nRESULTS\nCases included acute lymphoblastic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and acute leukemia of ambiguous lineage. Many cases demonstrated genetic alterations of known diagnostic, prognostic, and/or therapeutic significance, while others exhibited alterations that illuminated disease biology. The workshop highlighted the complexity of acute leukemia diagnosis and follow-up, while illustrating advantages and pitfalls of molecular genetic testing.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nOur understanding of the molecular genetics of acute leukemias continues to grow rapidly. Awareness of the potential complexity of genetic architecture and environment is critical and emphasizes the importance of integrating clinical information with morphologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular genetic evaluation.