Minimal residual disease markers before and after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in acute myeloid leukemia

Purpose of review: This study will review the role of minimal residual disease (MRD) in predicting leukemia relapse following an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Recent findings: PCR and multiparameter flow cytometry (MFC) assays are the most important methods of identifying MRD. PCR technique allows to recognize early genetic abnormalities of residual leukemic cells with high specificity and sensitivity. MFC assay using six-color to 10-color technology is an alternative option for MRD monitoring in AML patients without gene markers to detect leukemia-associated immunophenotype antigens (LAIPs). Summary: Despite the evidence that early detection of MRD after allogeneic HSCT is associated with a high risk of hematological relapse, it is still unclear whether this information can be translated into clinical practice, in order to prevent hematological relapse.