Immunophenotyping (for Lymphoma/Leukemia), Flow Cytometry

This Test is an advanced diagnostic test used to analyse specific markers (antigens) present on the surface of blood or bone marrow cells. It helps in identifying and classifying abnormal cells associated with blood cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.

Flow cytometry uses laser-based technology to evaluate thousands of cells quickly, providing detailed information about cell type, origin, and characteristics. This test is essential for distinguishing between different types of leukemia and lymphoma, guiding accurate diagnosis and treatment decisions.

The purpose of this test is to:

• Identify and classify leukemia and lymphoma cells
• Analyse cell surface markers (immunophenotyping)
• Support accurate diagnosis of blood cancers
• Monitor disease progression and treatment response

IMMUNOPHENOTYPING (FOR LYMPHOMA/LEUKEMIA), FLOW CYTOMETRY Test

Immunophenotyping by flow cytometry is a laboratory test used to examine the characteristics of individual cells, particularly white blood cells. It identifies specific proteins or markers on the surface or inside cells using antibodies and analyses them with a flow cytometer.

The test is especially useful when leukemia or lymphoma is suspected. Abnormal lymphoid or myeloid cells often show a particular pattern of markers. By identifying these patterns, immunophenotyping can help determine the type and lineage of abnormal blood cells and distinguish between different hematological disorders.

The test may be performed on blood, bone marrow, lymph node or other suitable tissue/body fluid samples, depending on the clinical situation. It can help classify conditions such as acute leukemia, chronic leukemia, B-cell or T-cell lymphomas, and other lymphoproliferative disorders.

Furthermore, flow cytometry may be used alongside CBC, peripheral blood smear, bone marrow examination, lymph node biopsy, cytogenetic tests, and molecular tests. The results should be interpreted together with the patient's symptoms, examination findings, and other laboratory investigations.

IMMUNOPHENOTYPING (FOR LYMPHOMA/LEUKEMIA), FLOW CYTOMETRY Test is Recommended for Individuals:

• Individuals with unexplained abnormalities in white blood cell counts
• Patients with suspected leukemia or lymphoma
• Individuals with abnormal cells detected on a peripheral blood smear
• Patients with unexplained or persistent lymphocytosis
• Individuals with unexplained anemia, low platelet counts or abnormal blood counts
• Patients undergoing evaluation of bone marrow disorders
• Individuals with enlarged lymph nodes or spleen when a hematological malignancy is suspected
• Patients requiring classification of a diagnosed leukemia or lymphoma
• Individuals being evaluated for relapse or residual disease after treatment, when clinically indicated
• Patients whose doctor recommends immunophenotyping to identify a specific cell lineage or abnormal cell population

FAQs

1. What does immunophenotyping by flow cytometry detect?
It identifies specific markers on or within blood and tissue cells. The pattern of these markers helps determine whether an abnormal cell population is present and whether it is more consistent with a B-cell, T-cell, myeloid or other cell lineage.

2. Does a flow cytometry test confirm leukemia or lymphoma by itself?
Not always. Flow cytometry provides important information for diagnosis and classification, but the final diagnosis may require correlation with clinical findings, blood or bone marrow examination, biopsy, cytogenetic studies and molecular tests.

3. What sample is used for lymphoma/leukemia immunophenotyping?
Depending on the suspected condition, the sample may be peripheral blood, bone marrow, lymph node/tissue or another appropriate specimen. Your healthcare provider will determine the most suitable sample based on your symptoms and clinical evaluation.