KMT2A alterations in acute myeloid leukemia: a proposed genetic risk model and transplantation outcomes

KMT2A-altered acute myeloid leukemia (AML) comprises rearrangements (KMT2A-r), partial tandem duplications (KMT2A-PTD), and dual alterations (KMT2A-r/PTD). In this study of 125 patients, these subgroups exhibited distinct molecular profiles: KMT2A-r cases were enriched in RAS pathway mutations, whereas KMT2A-PTD showed a higher burden of epigenetic alterations. Although overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) did not differ significantly between subgroups, prognosis was strongly influenced by fusion partners. MLLT3/ELL-rearranged cases showed superior outcomes, but concurrent KMT2A-PTD abrogated this survival advantage, AFDN and other fusions showed poor outcomes. We therefore propose a revised three-tier risk model integrating fusion partner and PTD status, which significantly stratified patient outcomes. The intermediate-risk group (MLLT3/ELL without PTD) had a 3-year OS of 78.1%, compared to 50.5% in the high-risk group (all PTD), and 34.9% in the very high-risk group (other KMT2A-r) (P = 0.044). For EFS, the rates were 71.0%, 40.1%, and 24.9%, respectively (P = 0.003). Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation significantly improved survival, with 3-year OS rates of 75.2% in transplant recipients versus 22.5% in non-transplanted patients (P < 0.001), particularly in high-risk groups and when performed in first complete remission. These findings support the use of molecularly guided, risk-adapted therapy in KMT2A-altered AML.