How does APL happen?

APL happens because of a change in a person’s chromosomes. Chromosomes are inside all cells and carry our genes. In APL, the PML gene on chromosome 15 fuses with the RARA gene on chromosome 17. A defective protein forms as a result.

What is the survival rate for APL leukemia?

APL is now considered a highly curable disease, with 2-year event-free survival rates of 75–84%. Early mortality is common in APL and is frequently related to hemorrhagic complications.

How common is APL leukemia?

APL comprises 5 to 10% of all cases of adult acute myeloid leukemia. Each year in the United States, it develops in around 2.2 people per million, for a total of 600 to 800 individuals. Although APL can occur at any age, middle age adults are most commonly affected; the median age at diagnosis is around 40.

Is APL fatal?

The disease is identified by distinctive morphology and is distinguished by a balanced reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 15 and 17. Historically, APL has been characterized by a rapidly fatal course with a high incidence of early hemorrhagic death.

How long can you live with APL?

Unlike most leukemias, acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) has a very good prognosis, with long-term survival rates up to 90% following treatment.

Is APL leukemia rare?

APL is a rare sub-type of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). When you have APL, the bone marrow is not able to make enough normal blood cells. APL is treated in a very different way from other forms of AML, if a patient with APL is given standard treatment, there is a risk of serious problems with their clotting system.

What is the most treatable leukemia?

While it is similar in many ways to the other subtypes, APL is distinctive and has a very specific treatment regime. Treatment outcomes for APL are very good, and it is considered the most curable type of leukemia. Cure rates are as high as 90%.