Choosing a drug and genetics
The genetics of the leukaemia cell show both the risk and which medicine is likely to work.
01Short answer
02Simple explanation
Topic. medicine choice and genetics.
Ask. Your team will explain your own situation.
Write down. Your questions.
Overview. The article “Targeted therapy”.
03Scientific explanation
Risk group: genetics helps predict the course of the disease.
Somatic versus inherited: most changes are not inherited; rarely, testing is offered to relatives.
04What happens in the body?
Medicine choice and genetics
At diagnosis, chromosomes (cytogenetics) and mutations (molecular tests) are checked in marrow or blood cells. The results help decide treatment intensity, targeted medicines and whether a transplant is needed. These are not inherited genes; the changes arose in the leukaemia cell.
In more detail
Risk group: genetics helps predict the course of the disease. Somatic versus inherited: most changes are not inherited; rarely, testing is offered to relatives.
The overview
This article goes deep into one subject. For the bigger picture, see “Targeted therapy”.
05Medicine choice and genetics: the steps
Four steps.
06Tests
| Test | What it shows | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Cytogenetics | Chromosome changes | Philadelphia chromosome |
| FISH | Specific breaks | BCR::ABL1 |
| Molecular panel | Mutations | FLT3, NPM1, TP53 |
07Key terms
- Cytogenetics
- The study of chromosomes.
- Somatic mutation
- A change found only in the diseased cell.
08Key points
- Everyone’s plan is individual.
- Write down and bring your questions.
- Report new symptoms early.
- Do not change medicines yourself.
- For food, see “Handwashing: the simplest protection” and “Eggs and dairy: safe choices”.
- Overview: “Targeted therapy”.
09Frequently asked questions
Will my children inherit it?
In most cases no; if in doubt, genetic counselling is offered.
Is this the same for everyone?
No; the plan depends on the type of leukaemia and your situation.
Where is the overview?
In the article “Targeted therapy”.
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.
Will my children inherit it?
Is this the same for everyone?
Where is the overview?
12Sources
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Biomarker Testing / Precision Medicine
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Targeted Therapy to Treat Cancer
- MedlinePlus. Leukemia
- MedlinePlus. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance
- MedlinePlus. Electrolytes
- MedlinePlus. Dehydration
- MedlinePlus. IV treatment at home
- NICE. Having IV fluid therapy (Intravenous fluid therapy in adults in hospital)
- National Cancer Institute (NCI). Urinary and Bladder Problems and Cancer Treatment
- MedlinePlus. Urinalysis