CXCR4 expression accounts for clinical phenotype and outcome in acute myeloid leukemia.

BACKGROUND: In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), CXCR4 expression has been correlated with leukocytosis and prognosis. METHODS: We quantified CXCR4 expression by flow cytometry on leukemic cells in 142 AML patients. RESULTS: We confirm a correlation between high CXCR4 expression and leukemic burden. Furthermore, we documented a correlation with platelet count, dysplastic megakaryopoiesis, hepato-splenomegaly and extra-hematological disease. NPM1-mutated AML displayed a significantly higher intensity of CXCR4 compared to NPM1-wt cases: it is conceivable its clinical phenotype to be driven by high CXCR4 expression. CONCLUSIONS: CXCR4 expression resulted in an independent prognostic factor. Our data support CXCR4 targeting as a potential therapeutic strategy.