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How a single tube of marrow or blood can define a cancer
Flow cytometry uses antibodies against cell-surface and intracellular markers to characterise haematopoietic cells. It is central to the diagnosis of leukemia and lymphoma, plasma cell disorders and some benign cytopenias, and to measurable residual disease monitoring. Interpretation requires clinical context and correlation with morphology and genetics.
Haematology & Haemato-Oncology
Authored and reviewed by Dr. Sachita Baniya (MBBS, FCPS (Clinical Haematology), NMC 20158). Evidence-based, no fabricated outcomes.
Flow cytometry uses antibodies against cell-surface and intracellular markers to characterise haematopoietic cells. It is central to the diagnosis of leukemia and lymphoma, plasma cell disorders and some benign cytopenias, and to measurable residual disease monitoring. Interpretation requires clinical context and correlation with morphology and genetics.
Reviewed by Dr. Sachita Baniya, MBBS, FCPS — Consultant Haemato-Oncologist & Clinical Hematologist (NMC 20158). For evaluation, contact the respective hospital or cancer centre — Kathmandu Cancer Center (KCC) Nepal, Civil Service Hospital Kathmandu, or Advanced Care Hospital.
Cells are passed through a laser and analysed for size, granularity and fluorescence from labelled antibodies. Panels are designed to identify lineage, maturation, clonality and aberrant marker expression. The result is reported as a phenotype, not a diagnosis, and must be integrated with morphology and molecular findings.
Flow cytometry requires viable cells and adequate sample quality. Small populations may be missed, and some lymphomas are difficult to assess in blood or marrow. A negative result does not exclude disease. The panel, timing of sampling and prior treatment all affect interpretation.
Guidelines referenced:
WHO Classification of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid TumoursInternational consensus guidelines on flow cytometric MRDNCCN Guidelines — Haematological MalignanciesContent on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. In case of a medical emergency, contact emergency services immediately. No doctor–patient relationship is established by use of this site or by contacting the clinic through the site.