RESUMO
AIM: To discuss the specific features of the cytogenetics and clinical manifestations of acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALL) with balanced and unbalanced translocations (1;19)(q23; p13). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bone marrow cells with differential staining of chromosomes into G-segments underwent cytogenetic study that was added by fluorescence in situ hybridization in 2 cases. The karyotypes of 3 patients with ALL previously untreated at 5, 18, and 23 years of age were studied. RESULTS: Balanced translocations (1;19)(q23; p13) were found in 2 of the examinees while unbalanced translocation was noted in 1 case. Modal chromosomal classes were 46, 47, and 55-65 if the cells had additional structural (+1q, 6q-, etc.) and numerical chromosomal abnormalities (nonrandom trisomies and tetrasomies of chromosomes of different pairs). CONCLUSION: Translocation (1;19)(q23; p13) is characteristic for patients of different age groups, mainly for those with pre-B cell ALL. It is commonly concurrent with other karyotypic changes, namely, 6q deletion, 1q trisomy, and high hyperdiploidy.