Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

2006 Bethesda International Consensus recommendations on the flow cytometric immunophenotypic analysis of hematolymphoid neoplasia: medical indications

The clinical indications for diagnostic flow cytometry studies are an evolving consensus, as the knowledge of antigenic definition of hematolymphoid malignancies and the prognostic significance of antigen expression evolves. Additionally the standard of care is not routinely communicated to practicing clinicians and diagnostic services, especially as may relate to new technologies. Accordingly there is often uncertainty on the part of clinicians, payers of medical services, diagnostic physicians and scientists as to the appropriate use of diagnostic flow cytometry. In an attempt to communicate contemporary diagnostic utility of immunophenotypic flow cytometry in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with hematolymphoid malignancies, the Clinical Cytometry Society organized a two day meeting of international experts in this area to reach a consensus as to this diagnostic tool. This report summarizes the appropriate use of diagnostic flow cytometry as determined by unanimous approval of these experienced practitioners.

Immunophenotypic analysis of acute lymphocytic leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is one of the most common hematologic malignancies. Flow cytometry is an integral part of ALL diagnosis and also provides significant patient prognostic information. This article is a practical review of the basic principles of the flow cytometric evaluation of acute leukemias, the interpretation of flow cytometric data, and the management of practical problems such as aberrant antigen, hematogones, bone marrow regeneration, and minimal residual disease.