American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Technologist in Cytogenetics certification (ASCP CG) Practice Test

What is a common feature of AML subtypes M0 and M1 in terms of differentiation?

1. Both display high levels of cell differentiation

2. Both types are associated with a lack of differentiation

3. Both types have chromosomal changes

4. Both types exhibit unique genetic markers

The correct answer is: Both types are associated with a lack of differentiation

The correct answer emphasizes the commonality of a lack of differentiation in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) subtypes M0 and M1. In these subtypes, leukemic cells typically exhibit minimal to no signs of myeloid differentiation. In M0, there is an absence of identifiable differentiation and an increase in blast cells that are morphologically undifferentiated. This subtype is characterized by a predominance of primitive myeloid cells that lack specific lineage markers. M1, while showing some myeloid features, predominantly consists of blasts that are only mildly differentiated, indicating early stages of myeloid cell development. It is characterized by a higher percentage of immature blasts in the bone marrow but still doesn't demonstrate full myeloid maturation. Subtypes M0 and M1 are particularly notable for their aggressive nature, often leading to rapid disease progression without effective differentiation of the cells. Therefore, the shared characteristic of being associated with a lack of differentiation underlines the distinction of these AML subtypes within the broader classification of acute leukemias. While other answers may imply features related to differentiation or genetic markers, they do not accurately represent the unified characteristic of both M0 and M1, reinforcing the importance of recognizing the lack of