Genetic tests to evaluate prognosis and predict therapeutic response in acute myeloid leukemia

Management of patients with acute myeloid leukemia relies on genetic tests that inform diagnosis and prognosis, predict response to therapy, and measure minimal residual disease. The value of genetics is reinforced in the revised 2008 World Health Organization acute myeloid leukemia classification scheme. The various analytic procedures-karyotype, fluorescence in situ hybridization, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing, and microarray technology-each have advantages in certain clinical settings, and understanding their relative merits assists in specimen allocation and in effective utilization of health care resources. Karyotype and array technology represent genome-wide screens, whereas the other methods target specific prognostic features such as t(15;17) PML-RARA, t(8;21) RUNX1-RUNX1T1, inv(16) CBFB-MYH11, 11q23 MLL rearrangement, FLT3 internal tandem duplication, or NPM1 mutation. New biomarkers and pharmacogenetic tests are emerging. The pathologist's expertise is critical in 1) consulting with clinicians about test selection as well as specimen collection and handling; 2) allocating tissue for immediate testing and preserving the remaining specimen for any downstream testing that is indicated once morphology and other pertinent test results are known; 3) performing tests that maximize outcome based on the strengths and limitations of each assay in each available specimen type; and 4) interpreting and conveying results to the rest of the health care team in a format that facilitates clinical management. Acute myeloid leukemia leads the way for modern molecular medicine.