Leukemia
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609 patients with B cell chronic lymphoproliferative disorder were studied with the primary aim of analyzing the cytogenetic profile of B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemias and, if possible, define correlations with FAB classification of these diseases. Morphological and immunological studies were performed according to criteria proposed by the FAB group. A panel of monoclonal antibodies, including at least sIg, CD19, CD5, and FMC7 was used. ⋯ Chronic lymphocytic leukemia was not statistically associated with any specific chromosomal abnormality. However, this subtype showed a high incidence of del(11)(q) and rearrangements of 13q. This study confirms the value of cytogenetic investigation in the diagnosis of these disorders and may provide some new elements for future refinement of the FAB classification in mature B cell lymphocytic disorders.