ASCP Molecular Biology (MB) Technologist Practice Exam

The genetic alteration t(8;21) is specifically associated with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), particularly the M2 subtype. This translocation results in the fusion of the RUNX1 gene on chromosome 21 with the RUNX1T1 gene on chromosome 8, leading to the production of a fusion protein that influences hematopoietic differentiation and proliferation. The presence of this genetic alteration is a significant diagnostic marker in the classification of acute myeloid leukemia, as it indicates a specific pathophysiological mechanism contributing to the disease.

In the context of leukemia types mentioned in the other options, chronic lymphocytic leukemia typically involves different genetic changes, while acute lymphoblastic leukemia and multiple myeloma have their own characteristic genetic anomalies and do not present with the t(8;21) alteration. Therefore, acute myelogenous leukemia is the only type among the choices provided that is directly related to this specific genetic translocation.