RESUMO
Purpose:To study the clinical significance and hematologic features of CD56 + Acute Myeloid Leukemia(AML). Methods:The expression of differentiation antigens on the acute myeloid leukemia cells were detected by flow cytometry(FCM);the Epstein-Barr Virus(EBV) mRNA in CD56 + AML leukemic cells by Rt-PCR assay;the ultrastructure of the CD56 + AML leukemia cells were showed by electron microscope and immuno-electron-microscope. The hematologic features and clinical characteristics at the first visit retrospectively analysed as well as the effect of chemotherapy.Results:CD56 expression rate in AML was 30.62%(79/258).EBV-mRNA were negative in all CD56 + AML cells detected.The ultrastructural characteristics showed 1-2 masses floccose objects in nucleus of CD56 + AML leukemic cells,CD56 expression had no correlation with age,sex,WBC,Hb,BPC,Leukemic cell count in BM,CR rate and CR duration(P value is 0.128,0.877,0.181,0.866,0.629,0.407,0.998 and 0.096,respectively),but there was correlation with higher extramedullary involvement(77.78% v 61.11%,P=0.019)?higher expression of CD34 (66.67% v 46.48%,P=0.03),higher expression of P170(51.79% v 34.94%,P=0.048) and shorter survival(Median,11.5 months v 18 months,P=0.0478). Conclusions:AML was a specific subtype of AML,with a poor prognosis.It may be useful to have more detailed classification with appropriate therapy for this subtype.