Objective: To assess the value of detecting multiple rearrangements of MLL gene in children with acute mononuclear leukemia (AML).
Methods: Eighty six children with AML were analyzed by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), chromosomal karyotyping and multiplex reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR).
Results: Cross signals were detected by FISH in 26 cases, and 30.2% were detected with MLL gene rearrangements. R-band karyotyping analysis revealed 14 translocations with breakages involving 11q23 and 5 other aberrations, which yielded an overall detection rate of 22.1%. Multiple RT-PCR has detected 12 fusion genes produced by the MLL translocation, which yielded a detection rate of 14.0%. A significant difference was found in the detection rate of the three methods (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: Combined use of FISH, chromosomal karyotyping and multiplex RT-PCR can improve the detection of MLL gene rearrangements and provide important clues for clinical diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of AML.