Heme-onc Flashcards
(8 cards)
Which malignancy is associated with the t(8;14) translocation?
The t(8;14) translocation is most commonly seen in Burkitt lymphoma. It results in overexpression of the c-MYC oncogene. Tumor cells often show round nuclei with basophilic cytoplasm and prominent lipid vacuoles.
Which malignancy is associated with the t(9;22) translocation?
The t(9;22) translocation, also known as the Philadelphia chromosome, is characteristic of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). It creates a BCR-ABL fusion gene leading to constitutive tyrosine kinase activity. Peripheral blood smear reveals marked leukocytosis with mature and immature myeloid cells.
Which malignancy is associated with the t(12;21) translocation?
The t(12;21) translocation is the most common in childhood B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It is associated with a favorable prognosis. Blood smear typically shows anemia, thrombocytopenia, and the presence of lymphoblasts.
Which malignancy is associated with the t(14;18) translocation?
The t(14;18) translocation is common in follicular lymphoma. It leads to overexpression of the BCL2 gene, which inhibits apoptosis. Blood smears may show malignant cells with notched or cleaved nuclei known as centrocytes.
What cancer is associated with the t(15;17) translocation?
The t(15;17) translocation is associated with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This translocation involves the fusion of the PML gene on chromosome 15 with the retinoic acid receptor-alpha (RARA) gene on chromosome 17. It is highly specific for APL and not found in other leukemias or tumors.
What are the clinical features of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)?
Acute promyelocytic leukemia typically presents with pancytopenia, causing symptoms like weakness, infections, bleeding, and gum ecchymoses. A key complication is disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), which can lead to life-threatening bleeding. Auer rods, which are needle-shaped cytoplasmic inclusions in promyelocytes, may be seen on peripheral smear.
What is the management of APL?
Prompt treatment with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is critical due to the high risk of early mortality from hemorrhage.
What are helpful mnemonics for remembering the translocations and features of common leukemias and lymphomas?
