Cytogenetic and molecular genetic diagnostics in oncohematological disorders: a position paper of the Organization of Molecular Geneticists in Oncology and Oncohematology

Abstract

Introduction. Currently, there is no unequivocal opinion on the optimal list of studies for the genetic diagnosis of oncohematological disorders in children and adults. These discrepancies are due to the limited technological capabilities of laboratories, the rapid development of science, and a significant expansion of the range of new molecular markers, that are attractive, but only for a limited group of patients. Moreover, in modern conditions of limited access to resources, it seems important to bring desires, interests and opportunities to a common denominator. Aim — to develop unified approaches to the cytogenetic and molecular genetic diagnosis of oncohematological diseases in children and adults based on the consensus opinion of the panel of experts. Main findings. The review proposes the arrangement of cytogenetic and molecular genetic diagnostic tests in oncohematological disorders in children and adults into 3 categories depending on the frequency of genetic aberrations, the study complexity and the prognostic impact. Based on this and taking into account the diagnosis and age of patients, the minimal and optimal lists of clinically significant parameters and research markers were identified. The basic preanalytical principles for conducting cytogenetic and molecular genetic studies in oncohematology are pointed out. A brief description of a conventional cytogenetic study and a polymerase chain reaction for the diagnosis of oncohematological diseases is given. The paper also focused on the need for reference diagnostics of cytogenetic and molecular genetic studies in oncohematology. The article is addressed to the specialists in the field of laboratory genetics, clinical laboratory diagnostics, but may also be of interest to hematologists, pediatric oncologists and doctors of related branches.