Question 1

What is the difference between myeloid and lymphoid leukaemia?

Accepted Answer

Myeloid leukaemias arise from the common myeloid progenitor. Lymphoid leukaemias arise from the common lymphoid progenitor. Distinction is based on morphology and immunophenotyping.

Question 2

What are the key haematopoietic growth factors?

Accepted Answer

EPO stimulates erythrocytes, G-CSF stimulates neutrophils, GM-CSF stimulates granulocytes and monocytes, TPO agonists stimulate platelets.

Question 3

How does chemotherapy affect haemopoiesis?

Accepted Answer

The nadir occurs predictably: 7-14 days after most regimens for neutrophils, 7-10 days for platelets. Recovery usually occurs in 3-4 weeks.

Question 4

What does pancytopenia suggest?

Accepted Answer

Pancytopenia suggests a problem at the HSC or early progenitor level. Causes include aplastic anaemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, leukaemia, and chemotherapy.