Patterns of AML1-ETO transcript expression in patients with acute myeloid leukemia and t(8;21) in complete hematologic remission.

We used real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RQ-PCR) to investigate the expression patterns of AML1-ETO fusion transcript during the follow-up of seven patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) associated with t(8;21)(q22;q22). In contrast to previous reports of persistent qualitative RT-PCR positivity even during long-term complete remission, our data suggest that a high proportion of t(8;21)-associated AML patients may achieve RQ-PCR negativity after successful treatment. Our data also suggest the possible existence of at least two patterns of transcript expression after successful chemotherapy: 1) early RQ-PCR negativity (sometimes followed by transient positivity); 2) gradual achievement of RQ-PCR negativity.