Flow Cytometry Panel Order

Flow cytometry: This testing may be performed to evaluate antigens expressed by hematopoietic cells. The most common use of flow cytometry is to evaluate for involvement by a hematopoietic neoplasm (for instance leukemia, lymphoma, plasma cell neoplasm, or chronic myeloid neoplasm). Evaluation may include characterization of expression of up to 45 CD markers using antibodies labeled with a fluorescent marker.

If you are unsure if this testing is appropriate, please contact the hemepath fellow on call through the paging operator or contact the laboratory at 206-606-7060.

For information about ordering this service, please contact Client Support Services at 206-520-4600.

Flow Cytometry

The assay is performed by flow cytometric immunophenotyping and interpreted by a trained hematopathologist. The assay has been validated for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with hematopoietic neoplasms.

Requirements and Storage

Blood

1-6mL LAVENDER TOP (EDTA) or GREEN TOP (HEPARIN) stored at ambient temp

Bone Marrow

First pull collected in LAVENDER TOP (EDTA) or GREEN TOP (HEPARIN) stored at ambient temp

Bone Marrow Biopsy

Submerged in RPMI media stored at 3-5C (REFRIGERATED)

Tissues

Submerged in RPMI media stored at 3-5C (REFRIGERATED)

CSF and BAL

Immediately stored 1:1 in RPMI media stored at 3-5C (REFRIGERATED)

Note: If the container is near full, add enough RPMI to still be able to safely store and/or ship.

Body Fluids

Stored at 3-5C (REFRIGERATED)

Rejection Criteria:

· Specimens received in the laboratory >7 days of collection for diagnostic or tissue samples, or >5 days for MRD testing

· Samples received frozen

· Specimen drawn into tubes containing anticoagulant different from specific requirements.

· Specimen drawn into tubes with separator gel, even if not spun

· Clotted (Note: Clotted sample will be disaggregated for testing. Data will be evaluated by Pathologist before sample is rejected.)

· Mislabeled or inadequately-labeled specimens

· Leaking/broken container with no specimen left inside container

· Quantity of sample not sufficient to perform test

· Tissues that have been held in a fixative such as formalin

· Severely hemolyzed specimens

NOTE: Specimen requirements and handling may vary depending on a number of clinical factors; therefore, if there are questions or concerns, the laboratory should be consulted prior to obtaining the specimen in order to optimize the information to be gained. (Contact: 206-606-7060)

Forward sample to Hematopathology at storage temperatures Lab

Note: If spec arrives after 6:30PM Monday-Sunday forward to Hematopath the following day.

Note2: Hematology/Hematopathology lab will add RPMI media to CSF and tissue specimens on receipt.