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Published on: March 26, 2018
"Microgranular" acute promyelocytic leukemia: a distinct clinical, ultrastructural, and cytogenetic entity
Abstract:
Three patients with acute leukemia, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and a specific acquired chromosome abnormality [t (15;17)] were found by transmission electron microscopy to have the typical distribution of granules seen in promyelocytes. However, the average granule sizes were 120, 170, and 180 nm, respectively, for the three patients, significantly less than the 250-nm resolution of light microscopy. We regard the leukemia in these three patients as comprising a distinct clinical, ultrastructural, and cytogenetic entity that we have chosen to call "microgranular" acute promyelocytic leukemia.
Insights
This study identifies a new subtype of acute promyelocytic leukemia, termed "microgranular" acute promyelocytic leukemia, characterized by smaller granules not visible with light microscopy. This finding highlights a distinct clinical, ultrastructural, and cytogenetic entity in leukemia patients.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia.
- A characteristic translocation, t(15;17), is associated with APL.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a common complication in APL.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with acute leukemia, DIC, and the t(15;17) chromosome abnormality.
- Transmission electron microscopy revealed promyelocyte-like granules in these patients.
- The average granule sizes (120-180 nm) were below the resolution limit of light microscopy (250 nm).
Findings:
- The observed granule size suggests a distinct ultrastructural morphology.
- This morphology differentiates these cases from typical APL.
- The term 'microgranular' acute promyelocytic leukemia is proposed for this entity.
Implications:
- Recognition of this microgranular variant is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- This classification may impact treatment strategies and prognosis.
- Further research into the pathogenesis of microgranular APL is warranted.

