A case with >20% blasts, Auer rods, and t(8;21) positive. Which AML subtype is this?

Get ready for the CAMLPR Hematology Test. Use our quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations to enhance your understanding. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

A case with >20% blasts, Auer rods, and t(8;21) positive. Which AML subtype is this?

The key idea is that a specific cytogenetic abnormality defines this AML subtype. The translocation t(8;21)(q22;q22) RUNX1-RUNX1T1 is a classic hallmark of AML with maturation, i.e., FAB classification M2. When blasts exceed 20% and Auer rods are present, the presence of t(8;21) points strongly to M2, because this translocation is strongly associated with AML showing granulocytic maturation. Other subtypes have different defining features: M3 is acute promyelocytic leukemia typically with t(15;17); M0 is minimally differentiated AML with little maturation; M5 is monocytic leukemia with predominant monocyte lineage. So the combination given aligns best with M2.

The key idea is that a specific cytogenetic abnormality defines this AML subtype. The translocation t(8;21)(q22;q22) RUNX1-RUNX1T1 is a classic hallmark of AML with maturation, i.e., FAB classification M2. When blasts exceed 20% and Auer rods are present, the presence of t(8;21) points strongly to M2, because this translocation is strongly associated with AML showing granulocytic maturation.

Other subtypes have different defining features: M3 is acute promyelocytic leukemia typically with t(15;17); M0 is minimally differentiated AML with little maturation; M5 is monocytic leukemia with predominant monocyte lineage. So the combination given aligns best with M2.

More practice questions