FCM immunophenotyping and DNA analysis: Practical aspects that can affect data analysis and interpretation

Abstract

In the optimal setting, the FCM lymphoma-leukemia immunophenotyping laboratory is an integral component of the diagnostic hematopathology service. Flow cytometric analysis involves three stages: preanalytical (specimen handling and processing, including antibody staining), analytical (running the sample through the flow cytometer and acquiring data), and postanalytical (data analysis and interpretation). The quality and performance of the preanalytical and analytical steps impact on the resulting fluorescence data and thereby the interpretation. Deficiencies such as suboptimal instrument performance, poor reagent quality (antibodies and/or fluorochromes), or poor specimen quality can all result in inadequate resolution of positive and negative immunofluorescence.