Definition

The presence of somatic mutations in hematopoietic stem cells in an individual without a detectable hematologic cancer. The definition of CHIP requires that mutations are present with a variant allele frequency of 2% or higher and they are located in genes described to be affected in hematologic cancers. This condition is more common in older individuals and in those who have received treatment for other cancers. It is associated with both an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and hematologic cancers. Also called clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential.