juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia
Also written as: JMML — juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia
A rare pediatric blood cancer characterized by overproduction of myeloid and monocytic cells, primarily affecting children under 4 years.
Full Definition
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare and aggressive hematologic malignancy that predominantly affects infants and young children, with a median age at diagnosis of 1-2 years. The disease is characterized by excessive proliferation of myeloid and monocytic cells in the bone marrow, blood, and extramedullary sites. JMML often presents with hepatosplenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, and skin manifestations. The condition is frequently associated with genetic syndromes such as neurofibromatosis type 1 and Noonan syndrome. Treatment typically requires allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, as conventional chemotherapy is generally ineffective.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as JMML; hyphenate when used as an adjective.
In Context
- "The 18-month-old patient was diagnosed with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia based on characteristic morphologic and molecular findings." — Pathology report