Breakpoint-specific multiplex polymerase chain reaction allows the detection of IKZF1 intragenic deletions and minimal residual disease monitoring in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Deletion of the Ikaros (IKZF1) gene is an oncogenic lesion frequently associated with BCR-ABL1-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemias. It is also found in a fraction of BCR-ABL1-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemias, and early studies showed it was associated with a higher risk of relapse. Therefore, screening tools are needed for evaluation in treatment protocols and possible inclusion in risk stratification.