Identification of kit(M541L) somatic mutation in chronic eosinophilic leukemia, not otherwise specified and its implication in low-dose imatinib response

Activating mutations of KIT receptor tyrosine kinase have been reported in different neoplasms. The M541L KIT substitution (KIT(M541L)) has been described to be associated with pediatric mastocytosis, to enhance growth rate of the affected cells and to confer higher sensitivity to imatinib therapy. We investigated the presence of KIT(M541L) in five males with chronic eosinophilic leukemia, not otherwise specified (CEL, NOS), all negative for Platelet-derived growth factor-alpha (PDGFR) or PDGFRbeta abnormalities, which responded to imatinib therapy. To assess whether the mutation was constitutive or somatic in nature, we evaluated its presence analyzing either the neoplastic or normal cell population (epidermal cells or CD3-positive T lymphocytes). KIT(M541L) substitution was found in 4 out of 5 patients and in all it was somatic in nature. All patients were treated with low dose imatinib (100 mg daily orally), achieving complete and persistent clinical and hematological remission (median follow-up 74 months). One patient relapsed after 50 months. Our study strongly suggests to search for the KIT(M541L) in patients with CEL, NOS, negative for PDGFRalpha and PDGFRbeta abnormalities, to identify a subgroup of cases who may benefit from low dose imatinib therapy.