Prenatal Markers in Childhood Leukaemia
Author Information
Author(s): Hjalgrim L L, Madsen H O, Melbye M, Jørgensen P, Christiansen M, Andersen M T, Pallisgaard N, Hokland P, Clausen N, Ryder L P, Schmiegelow K, Hjalgrim H
Primary Institution: Danish Epidemiology Science Centre, Statens Serum Institut
Hypothesis
Is the development of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia initiated in utero?
Conclusion
The study provides further evidence that the development of t(12;21) B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia may be initiated in utero.
Supporting Evidence
- Leukaemia clone-specific fusion gene regions were demonstrated in Guthrie card DNA of three patients.
- Previous studies have shown that the first genetic event in leukaemia often occurs in utero.
- Age at leukaemia diagnosis may be inversely correlated with the burden of leukaemia clonal markers at birth.
Takeaway
Some children with a type of leukaemia may have signs of it even before they are born, which means it can start developing while they are still in their mom's belly.
Methodology
The study analyzed Guthrie cards from newborns for the presence of leukaemia clone-specific DNA using nested PCR.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited number of patients and the quality of DNA extracted from Guthrie cards.
Limitations
The success rate of identifying fusion genes was affected by the quality of diagnostic specimens.
Participant Demographics
Children diagnosed with B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, ages 2 years 11 months to 6 years 2 months.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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