Specific fine chromosomal defects in cancer: an overview.

More than 2 tumors have been found to have a specific chromosomal abnormality. In acute nonlymphocytic and acute lymphocytic leukemia, subgroups have also been identified with consistent chromosomal defects and different prognoses and responses to treatment. With the recent advent of high resolution chromosome technology, it appears possible that most malignant tumors will be found to have a chromosomal defect. This has recently been observed in acute nonlymphocytic leukemias. These findings and the availability of new solid tumor techniques make it possible to predict that study of chromosomes in cancer will become a useful if not essential tool in the subclassification and understanding of the etiology of neoplasias.