Overview of chromosomal translocations associated with chronic myeloid leukemia

Abstract

Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML) is a slow progressing condition caused by balanced translocations of chromosomes 9 and 22, also defined as the Philadelphia (Ph)chromosome, containing the BCR-ABL1 oncogene. CML is classified into three stages; the Chronic, the Accelerated and the Blast crisis phase. These phases are associated with chromosomal translocations and secondary changes. Over the years, innovative scientific development in cancer cytogenetics has considerably improved the detection of chromosomal abnormalities. Fluorescence In situ Hybridization (FISH) method allows further identification of chromosomal alterations that karyotyping cannot resolve. Karyotyping is a gold standard technique that provides the human genome overview. This review mainly focuses on further chromosomal abnormalities, biology of CML, pathways, and therapeutic regimens. The study highlights CML subdivisions and the clinical importance of additional chromosomal abnormalities.