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3h ago

AML Survival Rates Double with Early-Detection Molecular Test

A new bone marrow test identifies relapse in younger AML patients up to three months earlier, improving long-term survival by 50% and advancing precision oncology efforts.

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In a ten-minute procedure an anaesthetised patient has a needle inserted into their hip to take a sample of bone marrow for testing

Overview

  • The molecular test detects minimal residual disease (MRD) in younger acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with NPM1 and FLT3 mutations, enabling earlier relapse identification.
  • Results from UK NCRI AML17 and AML19 phase 3 trials (2012–2018) showed a 50% improvement in long-term survival when the test was used compared to standard monitoring.
  • The test allows treatment to restart at an earlier stage, when patients are healthier, reducing emergency interventions and improving outcomes.
  • Published in *The Lancet Haematology*, the findings have prompted collaboration with the NHS to roll out the test nationwide and integrate it into routine AML care.
  • Researchers are exploring the test's broader application to other cancers, aligning with precision medicine initiatives to improve early detection and tailored treatments.