AML

Question 1

What type of leukemia shows Auer rods on a smear?

Answer 1

Acute myeloblastic leukemia

Auer rods are indicative of acute myeloblastic leukemia and are an important diagnostic feature.

Question 2

What are Auer rods composed of?

Answer 2

Myeloperoxidase

Myeloperoxidase is a blue-green heme-containing pigment found in Auer rods.

Question 3

What percentage of blasts is significant in acute myeloblastic leukemia diagnosis?

Answer 3

30% or 50% blasts

These percentages are often mentioned in diagnosis when Auer rods are not presented.

Question 4

What is the translocation associated with acute promyelocytic leukemia?

Answer 4

t(15;17)

This genetic alteration is characteristic of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), also known as AML type M3.

Question 5

What is the treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia?

Answer 5

All-trans retinoic acid (vitamin A)

This treatment promotes the maturation of leukemic cells into mature granulocytes.

Question 6

What can the treatment of AML lead to in terms of leukemic cells?

Answer 6

Leukemic cell lysis

This process can cause the release of Auer rods into circulation, potentially precipitating DIC.