Minimal residual disease in acute promyelocytic leukemia.
In the last decade our understanding of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) has advanced tremendously. The recognition of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) as a powerful therapeutic agent paralleled the cloning of the t(15;17) breakpoint. RtPCR for the PML-RARA hybrid mRNA has become the hallmark of molecular diagnosis and molecular monitoring in APL. Current techniques are useful in predicting complete remission and a possible cure in many patients who repeatedly test negative by PCR. Standardizing techniques and improving the sensitivity of the assay are important. Doing this in a way so that clinically relevant minimal residual disease can be distinguished from "indolent disease" remains among the future challenges in APL.
Weil
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SC
Cancer Center in Population Science, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. scw_mail_98@yahoo.com
D016026:Bone Marrow Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D007372:Interferons / Q000494:pharmacology; D015473:Leukemia, Promyelocytic, Acute / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics / Q000628:therapy; D018365:Neoplasm, Residual; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D014178:Translocation, Genetic; D014212:Tretinoin / Q000627:therapeutic use
D014212:Tretinoin; D007372:Interferons