← Back
Questions and answers

Is it inherited?

Parents and children often ask whether this will pass down through the family. In most cases it will not.

Last updated: ~2 min read
One change, in one cell only
Figure 1.One change, in one cell only

01Short answer

The great majority of leukemias are not inherited. The genetic changes that cause them arise after birth, during life, in a blood-forming cell, and they are not passed to children. These are called “somatic” changes. Rarely, an inborn genetic predisposition (for example Down syndrome or certain family syndromes) raises the risk. A patient’s brothers and sisters may have a slightly higher risk, but not necessarily. If you are worried, genetic counselling can help.

02Simple explanation

Gene changes come in two kinds: inborn (in every cell) and acquired (in one cell line only).

Leukemia usually involves the second kind.

Such a change does not reach eggs or sperm, so it is not passed to children.

03Scientific explanation

Changes found in leukemia cells, such as BCR::ABL1, FLT3 and NPM1, are somatic and not inherited.

Germline predisposition, for example changes in RUNX1, CEBPA or DDX41, is uncommon; the WHO classification lists it separately. If several blood disorders run in a family, the doctor may offer germline testing.

04What happens in the body?

Two kinds of genetic change

An inborn change comes from a parent and is present in every cell. An acquired change arises in one cell during life. Most leukemias develop the second way.

When family risk is considered

If several close relatives had leukemia or MDS, if the diagnosis came at a young age, or if a related donor is being considered for transplant, the doctor may check for an inherited predisposition. This also matters for choosing the right donor.

A family tree: the change is not passed down
Figure 2.A family tree: the change is not passed down

What it means for children

A parent’s leukemia usually does not mean a leukemia risk for the children. A healthy lifestyle and ordinary check-ups are enough; special tests are needed only if a doctor recommends them.

A genetic counselling desk
Figure 3.A genetic counselling desk

05Where the change comes from

The path of a genetic change in leukemia.

Healthy DNA at birth — Most people are born without such a change.1Healthy DNA at birthMost people are born without such a change.
A change during life — An error arises in one blood-forming cell.2A change during lifeAn error arises in one blood-forming cell.
It stays in the marrow — The change does not reach egg or sperm cells.3It stays in the marrowThe change does not reach egg or sperm cells.
Rare family cases — If needed, the doctor arranges family testing.4Rare family casesIf needed, the doctor arranges family testing.
Peace of mind for childrenIn most cases there is no inherited risk.
Testing when neededGenetic counselling answers the questions.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Two kinds of genetic changeAn inborn change comes from a parent and is present in every cell. An acquired change arises in one cell during life. Most leukemias develop the second way.
When family risk is consideredIf several close relatives had leukemia or MDS, if the diagnosis came at a young age, or if a related donor is being considered for transplant, the doctor may check for an inherited predisposition. This also matters for choosing the right donor.
What it means for childrenA parent’s leukemia usually does not mean a leukemia risk for the children. A healthy lifestyle and ordinary check-ups are enough; special tests are needed only if a doctor recommends them.

07Key terms

Inherited
Passed from parent to child.
Germline change
A genetic change present in every cell from birth.
Genetic counselling
A meeting with a specialist who explains family risk.

08Key points

  • Most leukemias are not inherited.
  • The changes arise during life.
  • Rare family syndromes exist.
  • If in doubt, ask for genetic counselling.

09Frequently asked questions

Should my child be tested?

Usually not. If there are several cases in the family, discuss it with the doctor.

Can a brother or sister be a donor?

Yes, siblings are often the best match; if a predisposition is suspected, the donor is checked further.

Is the Philadelphia chromosome in CML inherited?

No, it is an acquired change found only in the leukemia cells.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Should my child be tested?

  2. Can a brother or sister be a donor?

  3. Is the Philadelphia chromosome in CML inherited?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). The Genetics of Cancer
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Leukemia—Patient Version
  3. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Leukemia
  4. NHS. Acute myeloid leukaemia
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Common Cancer Myths and Misconceptions
  6. NHS (UK). Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
  7. NHS (UK). Chronic myeloid leukaemia
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). What Is Cancer?
  9. American Cancer Society. Risk Factors for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
  10. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Talking With Family and Friends
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
Last updated: ← Back to the list

Open the interactive site →