Evolutionary sequence of cytogenetic aberrations during the oncogenesis of plasma cell disorders. Direct evidence at single cell level

Bone marrow specimens from 185 patients with plasma cell disorders (PCD) were investigated by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in order to determine the temporal sequence of cytogenetic aberrations. In 25 cases combined FISH analysis has also been performed at single cell level. Clonal evolution was observed in 16% of cases. The Delta 13 was preceded by t(4; 14)(p16;q32) and t(14;16)(q32;q23) translocations. Deletion of p53 gene was a secondary aberration compared to Delta 13 and t(11;14)(q13;q32) translocation. In 22% of all cases with recurrent IGH translocation, this aberration was presented only in a subset of purified plasma cells questioning its initiating role. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.