Diagnostics, classification and prognostic criteria of acute myeloid leukemia

The continuously growing knowledge about criteria important for biology, pathogenesis, prognosis and treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) necessitates a broad spectrum of diagnostic methods for first diagnosis and for the further course of the disease. Relevant diagnostic techniques (cytomorphology with cytochemistry, immunophenotyping, cytogenetics and molecular genetics, DNA array) are described - with a focus on their mode of operation as well on their clinical significance. Due to the high clinical relevance and growing complexity, AML diagnostics should be performed in specialized laboratories. Compared to the FAB classification which is based primarily on morphological criteria, the classification recommended in 2001 by the WHO additionally takes cytogenetics, molecular genetics and further clinical factors into consideration. Both classifications are described. A wide range of prognostic criteria of AML is discussed on the basis of currently available clinical data. The most important criteria are the karyotype of the leukemic clone and the patient's age.