Table 1.

Main characteristics of NPM1-mutated AML

Specific characteristics and comments
Approximately 30-35% of adult AML (50-60% of AML with normal cytogenetic). Less frequent in children (∼2-8%).* Female predominance. 
BM usually markedly hypercellular. Mostly myelomonocytic (FAB M4) and monocytic (FAB M5), but all FAB categories are represented. 
Approximately 23% of cases show multilineage dysplasia. 
WBC count may be influenced by FLT3 mutational status, progressively increasing from FLT3 wild-type to FLT3-ITDhigh
Frequent association with extramedullary involvement, especially skin (easily detectable by IHC). 
No/low expression of CD34. The rare CD34+ leukemic cells carry the NPM1 mutation. CD34 positivity has been associated with adverse prognosis. 
Excellent response to induction chemotherapy. 
Relatively good outcome in the absence of FLT3-ITD. Prognosis may vary depending upon concomitant mutations. 
Specific characteristics and comments
Approximately 30-35% of adult AML (50-60% of AML with normal cytogenetic). Less frequent in children (∼2-8%).* Female predominance. 
BM usually markedly hypercellular. Mostly myelomonocytic (FAB M4) and monocytic (FAB M5), but all FAB categories are represented. 
Approximately 23% of cases show multilineage dysplasia. 
WBC count may be influenced by FLT3 mutational status, progressively increasing from FLT3 wild-type to FLT3-ITDhigh
Frequent association with extramedullary involvement, especially skin (easily detectable by IHC). 
No/low expression of CD34. The rare CD34+ leukemic cells carry the NPM1 mutation. CD34 positivity has been associated with adverse prognosis. 
Excellent response to induction chemotherapy. 
Relatively good outcome in the absence of FLT3-ITD. Prognosis may vary depending upon concomitant mutations. 

A synonym of NPM1-mutated AML is “AML with cytoplasmic nucleophosmin” (NPM1c+).

FAB, French-American-British.

*

Likely because NPM1 mutations are often preceded by clonal hematopoiesis, which is very rare in children.

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