Auer rod
Auer rods—also known as Auer bodies—are distinctive, crystalline cytoplasmic inclusion bodies that can be identified in the myeloid blast cells of certain hematological diseases. Their presence is particularly associated with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), as well as high-grade Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Myeloproliferative Disorders.
Composition and Structure[edit | edit source]
Auer rods are composed of fused lysosomes and are rich in lysosomal enzymes. They are azurophilic, meaning they stain readily with the Romanowsky type dyes due to their affinity for acidic dyes like eosin. Morphologically, Auer rods can resemble various shapes such as needles, commas, diamonds, rectangles, corkscrews, or, though rarely, granules.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
The formation of Auer rods is not fully understood, but they are considered to be a byproduct of abnormal myeloid cell development and differentiation seen in certain hematologic malignancies. They are abnormal accumulations of peroxidase-positive material, such as Myeloperoxidase, that are typically not found in normal leukocytes.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
The presence of Auer rods in myeloid precursors is a pathognomonic sign of a pathological process and is critical in the diagnosis of certain types of leukemia. Their detection often involves a bone marrow examination and cytochemical staining, and is an important criterion in the French-American-British (FAB) Classification system used to classify AML.
Associated Conditions[edit | edit source]
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia
- Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia
- High-grade Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Myeloproliferative disorders
Detection and Examination[edit | edit source]
Auer rods are detected through microscopic examination of blood or bone marrow samples. They are especially visible under light microscopy in cells stained with Romanowsky stains, such as Wright's or Giemsa stain. In some cases, they may be seen in peripheral blood smears, but they are more commonly found during bone marrow analysis.
Prognostic Value[edit | edit source]
In some types of leukemia, the presence of Auer rods may have prognostic implications, aiding in risk stratification and treatment planning.
In Medical Education[edit | edit source]
The identification of Auer rods is a key component of medical education in Hematology and Pathology, training healthcare professionals to recognize important diagnostic features of hematological disorders.
Gallery[edit | edit source]
Bone marrow aspirate showing acute myeloid leukemia with Auer rods in several blasts
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
