Monocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells But Not Monocytes Predict Poor Prognosis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Abstract

Some reports suggest that high absolute monocyte count (AMC) at diagnosis is an independent predictor of poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but others disagree. Monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (Mo-MDSCs) are immature monocytes. This study aimed to compare the value of monocytes and Mo-MDSCs in predicting the prognosis of AML. Peripheral blood samples from 107 newly diagnosed patients with AML and 47 healthy controls (HCs) were collected. We validated the clinical significance of AMC, monocyte count (CD14+CD45++), and Mo-MDSC count (CD14+HLA-DRlow/-CD45++) for initial induction therapy response, maintenance of treatment effects, and long-term survival. Compared with HCs, the levels of AMC, monocyte count, and Mo-MDSC count were all significantly higher among patients with AML. However, only elevated Mo-MDSC count was significantly associated with lower complete remission rate, higher relapse/refractory rate, and poorer long-term survival. Mo-MDSCs but not monocytes predict the poor prognosis of AML.