The chromosomal translocation t(8;21)(q22;q22) is the cytogenetic hallmark of a distinct class of acute myeloid leukemias (AML) which are predominantly of the FAB-M2 subtype [1]. Approximately 25% of adult and 50% of childhood M2-leukemias possess this reciprocal translocation. Patients with a t(8;21) respond well to chemotherapy and have a favourable clinical outcome with high long-term survival rates2. Therefore, it seems important to identify these patients at diagnosis and to monitor their response to treatment.
