Dr. Schiller on the Importance of Genomic Testing in AML

Gary J. Schiller, MD, director, Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplantation and professor of hematology/oncology, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, underscores the importance of genomic testing in acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

It's important to remember that AML is not just one disease, says Schiller. He adds that he remembers urging his colleagues to perform cytogenetics and fluorescence in situ hybridization testing in the past. These tests have become standardized but newer approaches have also emerged, such as molecular testing, next-generation sequencing, and testing with probes.

These approaches have yet to become a standard part of routine practice, but the implications of performing these tests are significant, adds Schiller. For example, the results can help guide initial therapy, therapy after relapse, and inform the use of transplant. Schiller’s advice is to develop molecular testing panels at academic institutions and commercial laboratories to more adequately assess patients with AML.