Acute myeloid leukaemia with KMT2A rearrangement
Haematolymphoid Tumours (WHO Classification, 5th ed.)
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editContent Update To WHO 5th Edition Classification Is In Process; Content Below is Based on WHO 4th Edition ClassificationThis page was converted to the new template on 2023-12-07. The original page can be found at HAEM4:Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) with t(9;11)(p21.3;q23.3); KMT2A-MLLT3.
(General Instructions – The focus of these pages is the clinically significant genetic alterations in each disease type. This is based on up-to-date knowledge from multiple resources such as PubMed and the WHO classification books. The CCGA is meant to be a supplemental resource to the WHO classification books; the CCGA captures in a continually updated wiki-stye manner the current genetics/genomics knowledge of each disease, which evolves more rapidly than books can be revised and published. If the same disease is described in multiple WHO classification books, the genetics-related information for that disease will be consolidated into a single main page that has this template (other pages would only contain a link to this main page). Use HUGO-approved gene names and symbols (italicized when appropriate), HGVS-based nomenclature for variants, as well as generic names of drugs and testing platforms or assays if applicable. Please complete tables whenever possible and do not delete them (add N/A if not applicable in the table and delete the examples); to add (or move) a row or column in a table, click nearby within the table and select the > symbol that appears. Please do not delete or alter the section headings. The use of bullet points alongside short blocks of text rather than only large paragraphs is encouraged. Additional instructions below in italicized blue text should not be included in the final page content. Please also see Author_Instructions and FAQs as well as contact your Associate Editor or Technical Support.)
Primary Author(s)*
Megan Piazza, Ph.D., Yiming Zhong, Ph.D., Shashi Shetty, Ph.D.
WHO Classification of Disease
| Structure | Disease |
|---|---|
| Book | Haematolymphoid Tumours (5th ed.) |
| Category | Myeloid proliferations and neoplasms |
| Family | Acute myeloid leukaemia |
| Type | Acute myeloid leukaemia with defining genetic abnormalities |
| Subtype(s) | Acute myeloid leukaemia with KMT2A rearrangement |
WHO Essential and Desirable Genetic Diagnostic Criteria
(Instructions: The table will have the diagnostic criteria from the WHO book autocompleted; remove any non-genetics related criteria. If applicable, add text about other classification systems that define this entity and specify how the genetics-related criteria differ.)
| WHO Essential Criteria (Genetics)* | |
| WHO Desirable Criteria (Genetics)* | |
| Other Classification |
*Note: These are only the genetic/genomic criteria. Additional diagnostic criteria can be found in the WHO Classification of Tumours.
Related Terminology
(Instructions: The table will have the related terminology from the WHO autocompleted.)
| Acceptable | |
| Not Recommended |
Gene Rearrangements
Put your text here and fill in the table (Instructions: Details on clinical significance such as prognosis and other important information can be provided in the notes section. Please include references throughout the table. Do not delete the table.)
| Driver Gene | Fusion(s) and Common Partner Genes | Molecular Pathogenesis | Typical Chromosomal Alteration(s) | Prevalence -Common >20%, Recurrent 5-20% or Rare <5% (Disease) | Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Significance - D, P, T | Established Clinical Significance Per Guidelines - Yes or No (Source) | Clinical Relevance Details/Other Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXAMPLE: ABL1 | EXAMPLE: BCR::ABL1 | EXAMPLE: The pathogenic derivative is the der(22) resulting in fusion of 5’ BCR and 3’ABL1. | EXAMPLE: t(9;22)(q34;q11.2) | EXAMPLE: Common (CML) | EXAMPLE: D, P, T | EXAMPLE: Yes (WHO, NCCN) | EXAMPLE:
The t(9;22) is diagnostic of CML in the appropriate morphology and clinical context (add reference). This fusion is responsive to targeted therapy such as Imatinib (Gleevec) (add reference). BCR::ABL1 is generally favorable in CML (add reference). |
| EXAMPLE: CIC | EXAMPLE: CIC::DUX4 | EXAMPLE: Typically, the last exon of CIC is fused to DUX4. The fusion breakpoint in CIC is usually intra-exonic and removes an inhibitory sequence, upregulating PEA3 genes downstream of CIC including ETV1, ETV4, and ETV5. | EXAMPLE: t(4;19)(q25;q13) | EXAMPLE: Common (CIC-rearranged sarcoma) | EXAMPLE: D | EXAMPLE:
DUX4 has many homologous genes; an alternate translocation in a minority of cases is t(10;19), but this is usually indistinguishable from t(4;19) by short-read sequencing (add references). | |
| EXAMPLE: ALK | EXAMPLE: ELM4::ALK
|
EXAMPLE: Fusions result in constitutive activation of the ALK tyrosine kinase. The most common ALK fusion is EML4::ALK, with breakpoints in intron 19 of ALK. At the transcript level, a variable (5’) partner gene is fused to 3’ ALK at exon 20. Rarely, ALK fusions contain exon 19 due to breakpoints in intron 18. | EXAMPLE: N/A | EXAMPLE: Rare (Lung adenocarcinoma) | EXAMPLE: T | EXAMPLE:
Both balanced and unbalanced forms are observed by FISH (add references). | |
| EXAMPLE: ABL1 | EXAMPLE: N/A | EXAMPLE: Intragenic deletion of exons 2–7 in EGFR removes the ligand-binding domain, resulting in a constitutively active tyrosine kinase with downstream activation of multiple oncogenic pathways. | EXAMPLE: N/A | EXAMPLE: Recurrent (IDH-wildtype Glioblastoma) | EXAMPLE: D, P, T | ||
editv4:Chromosomal Rearrangements (Gene Fusions)The content below was from the old template. Please incorporate above.
This AML subtype is classified based on the translocation between chromosomes 9 and 11, specifically t(9;11)(p21.3;q23.3). This translocation leads to the fusion of the 5’ portion of KMT2A at 11q23.3 and the 3’ portion of MLLT3 at 9p21.3. Both reciprocal fusions are expressed, however, the KMT2A-MLLT3 fusion on the derivative chromosome 11 is the candidate oncoprotein as it contains the putative functional domains of both proteins[1][2][3].
| Chromosomal Rearrangement | Genes in Fusion (5’ or 3’ Segments) | Pathogenic Derivative | Prevalence |
|---|---|---|---|
| t(9;11)(p21.3;q23.3) | 5'KMT2A / 3'MLLT3 | der(11) | 1-12% of AML |
End of V4 Section
editv4:Clinical Significance (Diagnosis, Prognosis and Therapeutic Implications).Please incorporate this section into the relevant tables found in:
- Chromosomal Rearrangements (Gene Fusions)
- Individual Region Genomic Gain/Loss/LOH
- Characteristic Chromosomal Patterns
- Gene Mutations (SNV/INDEL)
Patients with t(9;11) resulting in a fusion between KMT2A and MLLT3 and ≥20% blasts are diagnosed with AML with t(9;11). AML with t(9;11)(p21.3;q23.3) has an intermediate survival, which is superior to AML with other 11q23 translocations[3][4]. There have been over 50 KMT2A translocation partners identified[5][6] and one of the most common partners is MLLT3[1].
Patients presenting with t(9;11)(p22;q23) and <20% blasts should be monitored closely for more definite evidence of AML.
End of V4 Section
Individual Region Genomic Gain/Loss/LOH
Put your text here and fill in the table (Instructions: Includes aberrations not involving gene rearrangements. Details on clinical significance such as prognosis and other important information can be provided in the notes section. Can refer to CGC workgroup tables as linked on the homepage if applicable. Please include references throughout the table. Do not delete the table.)
| Chr # | Gain, Loss, Amp, LOH | Minimal Region Cytoband and/or Genomic Coordinates [Genome Build; Size] | Relevant Gene(s) | Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Significance - D, P, T | Established Clinical Significance Per Guidelines - Yes or No (Source) | Clinical Relevance Details/Other Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXAMPLE:
7 |
EXAMPLE: Loss | EXAMPLE:
chr7 |
EXAMPLE:
Unknown |
EXAMPLE: D, P | EXAMPLE: No | EXAMPLE:
Presence of monosomy 7 (or 7q deletion) is sufficient for a diagnosis of AML with MDS-related changes when there is ≥20% blasts and no prior therapy (add reference). Monosomy 7/7q deletion is associated with a poor prognosis in AML (add references). |
| EXAMPLE:
8 |
EXAMPLE: Gain | EXAMPLE:
chr8 |
EXAMPLE:
Unknown |
EXAMPLE: D, P | EXAMPLE:
Common recurrent secondary finding for t(8;21) (add references). | |
| EXAMPLE:
17 |
EXAMPLE: Amp | EXAMPLE:
17q12; chr17:39,700,064-39,728,658 [hg38; 28.6 kb] |
EXAMPLE:
ERBB2 |
EXAMPLE: D, P, T | EXAMPLE:
Amplification of ERBB2 is associated with HER2 overexpression in HER2 positive breast cancer (add references). Add criteria for how amplification is defined. | |
editv4:Genomic Gain/Loss/LOHThe content below was from the old template. Please incorporate above.
The t(9;11)( p21.3;q23.3) can present with secondary abnormalities, most frequently trisomy of chromosome 8[2][3].
| Chromosome Number | Gain/Loss/Amp/LOH | Region |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | Gain (trisomy) | Entire chromosome |
End of V4 Section
Characteristic Chromosomal or Other Global Mutational Patterns
Put your text here and fill in the table (Instructions: Included in this category are alterations such as hyperdiploid; gain of odd number chromosomes including typically chromosome 1, 3, 5, 7, 11, and 17; co-deletion of 1p and 19q; complex karyotypes without characteristic genetic findings; chromothripsis; microsatellite instability; homologous recombination deficiency; mutational signature pattern; etc. Details on clinical significance such as prognosis and other important information can be provided in the notes section. Please include references throughout the table. Do not delete the table.)
| Chromosomal Pattern | Molecular Pathogenesis | Prevalence -
Common >20%, Recurrent 5-20% or Rare <5% (Disease) |
Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Significance - D, P, T | Established Clinical Significance Per Guidelines - Yes or No (Source) | Clinical Relevance Details/Other Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXAMPLE:
Co-deletion of 1p and 18q |
EXAMPLE: See chromosomal rearrangements table as this pattern is due to an unbalanced derivative translocation associated with oligodendroglioma (add reference). | EXAMPLE: Common (Oligodendroglioma) | EXAMPLE: D, P | ||
| EXAMPLE:
Microsatellite instability - hypermutated |
EXAMPLE: Common (Endometrial carcinoma) | EXAMPLE: P, T | |||
editv4:Characteristic Chromosomal Aberrations / PatternsThe content below was from the old template. Please incorporate above.
Not applicable
End of V4 Section
Gene Mutations (SNV/INDEL)
Put your text here and fill in the table (Instructions: This table is not meant to be an exhaustive list; please include only genes/alterations that are recurrent or common as well either disease defining and/or clinically significant. If a gene has multiple mechanisms depending on the type or site of the alteration, add multiple entries in the table. For clinical significance, denote associations with FDA-approved therapy (not an extensive list of applicable drugs) and NCCN or other national guidelines if applicable; Can also refer to CGC workgroup tables as linked on the homepage if applicable as well as any high impact papers or reviews of gene mutations in this entity. Details on clinical significance such as prognosis and other important information such as concomitant and mutually exclusive mutations can be provided in the notes section. Please include references throughout the table. Do not delete the table.)
| Gene | Genetic Alteration | Tumor Suppressor Gene, Oncogene, Other | Prevalence -
Common >20%, Recurrent 5-20% or Rare <5% (Disease) |
Diagnostic, Prognostic, and Therapeutic Significance - D, P, T | Established Clinical Significance Per Guidelines - Yes or No (Source) | Clinical Relevance Details/Other Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXAMPLE:EGFR
|
EXAMPLE: Exon 18-21 activating mutations | EXAMPLE: Oncogene | EXAMPLE: Common (lung cancer) | EXAMPLE: T | EXAMPLE: Yes (NCCN) | EXAMPLE: Exons 18, 19, and 21 mutations are targetable for therapy. Exon 20 T790M variants cause resistance to first generation TKI therapy and are targetable by second and third generation TKIs (add references). |
| EXAMPLE: TP53; Variable LOF mutations
|
EXAMPLE: Variable LOF mutations | EXAMPLE: Tumor Supressor Gene | EXAMPLE: Common (breast cancer) | EXAMPLE: P | EXAMPLE: >90% are somatic; rare germline alterations associated with Li-Fraumeni syndrome (add reference). Denotes a poor prognosis in breast cancer. | |
| EXAMPLE: BRAF; Activating mutations | EXAMPLE: Activating mutations | EXAMPLE: Oncogene | EXAMPLE: Common (melanoma) | EXAMPLE: T | ||
Note: A more extensive list of mutations can be found in cBioportal, COSMIC, and/or other databases. When applicable, gene-specific pages within the CCGA site directly link to pertinent external content.
editv4:Gene Mutations (SNV/INDEL)The content below was from the old template. Please incorporate above.
NA
Other Mutations
NA
End of V4 Section
Epigenomic Alterations
Not applicable
Genes and Main Pathways Involved
Put your text here and fill in the table (Instructions: Please include references throughout the table. Do not delete the table.)
| Gene; Genetic Alteration | Pathway | Pathophysiologic Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| EXAMPLE: BRAF and MAP2K1; Activating mutations | EXAMPLE: MAPK signaling | EXAMPLE: Increased cell growth and proliferation |
| EXAMPLE: CDKN2A; Inactivating mutations | EXAMPLE: Cell cycle regulation | EXAMPLE: Unregulated cell division |
| EXAMPLE: KMT2C and ARID1A; Inactivating mutations | EXAMPLE: Histone modification, chromatin remodeling | EXAMPLE: Abnormal gene expression program |
editv4:Genes and Main Pathways InvolvedThe content below was from the old template. Please incorporate above.
The KMT2A (Lysine Methyltransferase 2A) gene encodes a protein that complexes with other proteins and functions to regulate gene transcription through chromatin remodeling. This protein plays a vital role in regulating gene expressing during early development and hematopoiesis. The MLLT3 (Super Elongation Complex Subunit) gene encodes a protein that is an element of the super elongation complex (SEC). The SEC is a complex that plays an essential role in regulating the activity of RNA polymerase II transcription. The fusion protein created, KMT2A-MLLT3, leads to the promotion of transcriptional elongation, activation of genes that would typically be silenced, and thus inhibits hematopoietic cells from properly maturing[7].
End of V4 Section
Genetic Diagnostic Testing Methods
Karyotype, FISH, RT-PCR
Familial Forms
Not applicable
Additional Information
Not applicable
Links
References
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- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Arber DA, et al., (2017). Acute myeloid leukaemia with recurrent genetic abnormalities, in World Health Organization Classification of Tumours of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues, Revised 4th edition. Swerdlow SH, Campo E, Harris NL, Jaffe ES, Pileri SA, Stein H, Thiele J, Arber DA, Hasserjian RP, Le Beau MM, Orazi A, and Siebert R, Editors. Revised 4th Edition. IARC Press: Lyon, France, 136-138.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Byrd, John C.; et al. (2002). "Pretreatment cytogenetic abnormalities are predictive of induction success, cumulative incidence of relapse, and overall survival in adult patients with de novo acute myeloid leukemia: results from Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB 8461)". Blood. 100 (13): 4325–4336. doi:10.1182/blood-2002-03-0772. ISSN 0006-4971. PMID 12393746.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Mrózek, K.; et al. (1997). "Adult patients with de novo acute myeloid leukemia and t(9; 11)(p22; q23) have a superior outcome to patients with other translocations involving band 11q23: a cancer and leukemia group B study". Blood. 90 (11): 4532–4538. ISSN 0006-4971. PMID 9373264.
- ↑ Rubnitz, Jeffrey E.; et al. (2002). "Favorable impact of the t(9;11) in childhood acute myeloid leukemia". Journal of Clinical Oncology: Official Journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. 20 (9): 2302–2309. doi:10.1200/JCO.2002.08.023. ISSN 0732-183X. PMID 11981001.
- ↑ Meyer, C.; et al. (2006). "The MLL recombinome of acute leukemias". Leukemia. 20 (5): 777–784. doi:10.1038/sj.leu.2404150. ISSN 0887-6924. PMID 16511515.
- ↑ Shih, L.-Y.; et al. (2006). "Characterization of fusion partner genes in 114 patients with de novo acute myeloid leukemia and MLL rearrangement". Leukemia. 20 (2): 218–223. doi:10.1038/sj.leu.2404024. ISSN 0887-6924. PMID 16341046.
- ↑ Mueller, Dorothee; et al. (2009). "Misguided transcriptional elongation causes mixed lineage leukemia". PLoS biology. 7 (11): e1000249. doi:10.1371/journal.pbio.1000249. ISSN 1545-7885. PMC 2774266. PMID 19956800.
Notes
*Primary authors will typically be those that initially create and complete the content of a page. If a subsequent user modifies the content and feels the effort put forth is of high enough significance to warrant listing in the authorship section, please contact the Associate Editor or other CCGA representative. When pages have a major update, the new author will be acknowledged at the beginning of the page, and those who contributed previously will be acknowledged below as a prior author.
Prior Author(s):
*Citation of this Page: “Acute myeloid leukaemia with KMT2A rearrangement”. Compendium of Cancer Genome Aberrations (CCGA), Cancer Genomics Consortium (CGC), updated 02/11/2025, https://ccga.io/index.php/HAEM5:Acute_myeloid_leukaemia_with_KMT2A_rearrangement.