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As our understanding of ML improves, so does its classification. Previously, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) was more frequently classified using the FAB classification, based on cell morphology (the structural appearance of the cell). However, after it became apparent that genetic and molecular abnormalities play a more significant role in the disease's onset and clinical course, the World Health Organization (WHO) implemented a genetics-based classification.
The FAB classification comprises eight subtypes (M0, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7), ranging from M0 to M7. Treatments for all subtypes except M3 are similar.
The WHO classification has been updated in 2008, 2016, and 2022. The latest update provides subtypes based on each genetic abnormality. Furthermore, for some genetic anomalies, the required blast percentage (leukemic cell percentage) for diagnosis has been reduced from 20% to 10%.
What are the types (classification) of acute myeloid leukemia (AML)?
The FAB classification comprises eight subtypes (M0, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7), ranging from M0 to M7. Treatments for all subtypes except M3 are similar.
The WHO classification has been updated in 2008, 2016, and 2022. The latest update provides subtypes based on each genetic abnormality. Furthermore, for some genetic anomalies, the required blast percentage (leukemic cell percentage) for diagnosis has been reduced from 20% to 10%.