Predisposing conditions – RUNX1-ETO fusion

RUNX1-ETOfusion

The presence of pre-existing populations of cells that place individuals at risk of developing leukaemia has long been recognised. A classic example is the identification of the RUNX1-ETO fusion protein in the blood of neonates, as identified by their Guthrie cards. This suggests that in some patients, RUNX1-ETO fusion occurs in utero, and pre-dates the development of frank leukaemia.