Combined RT-PCR and Metaphase-FISH Posttransplant Studies in Pediatric Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

Abstract

Pediatric patients with CML may transiently demonstrate cells positive for the Philadelphia chromosome but not actively transcribing the bcr/abl-fusion message in their marrow during their posttransplant evaluation but remain in remission. Recurrence is highly likely in patients demonstrating positivity for both; these patients may be considered candidates for donor lymphocyte transfusion therapy.