FLT3 Internal Tandem Duplication (FLT3-ITD) Mutation Detection

FLT3-ITD refers to an internal tandem duplication mutation in the FLT3 gene, which is frequently found in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This mutation leads to a constitutively active FLT3 receptor, contributing to poor prognosis in AML patients. The mutation involves a duplication of a sequence within the FLT3 gene, most commonly in the juxtamembrane domain. FLT3-ITD mutations are a significant factor in determining the prognosis of AML patients. They are associated with a higher risk of relapse, shorter remission duration, and poorer overall survival. The FLT3-ITD allelic ratio (AR) is a measure of the amount of mutant FLT3 DNA compared to the normal (wild-type) DNA. A higher AR is generally associated with a poorer prognosis. The presence of FLT3-ITD mutation is an important consideration in determining the appropriate treatment strategy for AML patients, including the use of targeted therapies and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.