Auer rod
Auer rod
Auer rod (pronounced: /ˈaʊər rɒd/) is a distinctive cellular inclusion found in certain types of leukemia. Named after the American pathologist John Auer, these rods are needle-like inclusions that are typically found in the cytoplasm of myeloid or blast cells.
Etymology
The term "Auer rod" is derived from the name of its discoverer, John Auer, an American pathologist who first identified these structures in 1906. The term "rod" refers to the needle-like shape of these inclusions.
Description
Auer rods are composed of fused lysosomes, and are typically found in the cytoplasm of myeloid or blast cells. They are most commonly associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), particularly the M3 subtype (also known as acute promyelocytic leukemia), but can also be seen in other myeloid malignancies.
Clinical significance
The presence of Auer rods in a blood or bone marrow sample is a significant finding, as it is indicative of a myeloid malignancy. They are particularly associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but can also be seen in other myeloid malignancies such as myelodysplastic syndromes and myeloproliferative neoplasms. The presence of multiple Auer rods in a single cell, known as a 'faggot cell', is highly suggestive of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).
Related terms
- Leukemia: A group of cancers that usually begin in the bone marrow and result in high numbers of abnormal white blood cells.
- Blast cells: Immature cells that normally develop into white blood cells.
- Acute promyelocytic leukemia: A subtype of acute myeloid leukemia characterized by the presence of a translocation between chromosomes 15 and 17.
- Myelodysplastic syndromes: A group of disorders caused by poorly formed blood cells or ones that don't work properly.
- Myeloproliferative neoplasms: A group of diseases in which the bone marrow makes too many cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Auer rod
- Wikipedia's article - Auer rod
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