Keywords
Abstract
Cytogenetic analysis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) revealed a large number of non-random chromosomal abnormalities. In many cases, molecular studies of these abnormalities have identified specific genes involved in the process of leukemogenesis. The most common chromosomal aberrations are associated with specific laboratory and clinical characteristics and are currently used as diagnostic and prognostic markers to help the clinician choose the most effective treatment. Specific chromosomal aberrations and their molecular analogs have been included in the World Health Organization classification of hematologic malignancies and, together with morphology, immunophenotype, and clinical features, are used to identify various forms of the disease. This review summarizes current views on the clinical relevance of key cytogenetic findings in AML and ALL in adults.