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

Which of the following best describes AML M1 type?

1. AML with marked differentiation and chromosomal abnormalities

2. AML without differentiation or associated chromosomal changes

3. AML with moderate differentiation and genetic identifiers

4. AML exhibiting significant chromosomal stability

The correct answer is: AML without differentiation or associated chromosomal changes

The best description of AML M1 type is that it refers to acute myeloid leukemia lacking differentiation and does not typically display significant chromosomal abnormalities. This classification highlights the fact that AML M1 is characterized by the proliferation of immature myeloid cells and a lack of maturation toward more differentiated forms. In AML M1, the leukemic blasts are primarily undifferentiated, which is why the absence of differentiation is a key feature. This subtype is often associated with a higher white blood cell count and can present challenges in diagnosis and treatment due to the immature nature of the cells involved. The focus on a lack of differentiation makes the classification distinctly recognizable within the broader group of acute myeloid leukemias. The other options suggest varying degrees of differentiation and chromosomal changes, which do not apply to the M1 subtype of AML. For instance, AML with marked differentiation and chromosomal abnormalities would imply a different subtype, possibly M2 or others, where the cells show more maturity and specific chromosomal alterations. Similarly, stating that AML M1 exhibits significant chromosomal stability would conflict with the general understanding of leukemia progression and genetic instability often associated with these malignancies. Thus, the characteristics of AML M1 center exclusively on its undifferenti