Loss of the Y chromosome from bone marrow cells of males with myeloproliferative disorders. Report of two cases and review of the literature.

Two additional cases of myeloproliferative disorders are described showing as the only chromosome abnormality a loss of the Y chromosome. Comparing these cases with cases reviewed from the literature indicates that a loss of the Y chromosome in Ph1-positive and Ph1-negative CML may cause only a somewhat longer life expectancy following diagnosis. The exact role of the Y chromosome, however, in the initiation or progression of a malignant disorder cannot be stated at this time.