Flow Cytometry in the Diagnostic Laboratory Workup of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemias

Abstract

Acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALLs) are hematological neoplasms characterized by clonal proliferation of lymphoid blasts, which can be B- or T-cell type. Flow cytometric immunophenotyping is an integral component in establishing blast lineage during the diagnostic workup of ALLs, aiding in appropriate therapy, prognostication, and monitoring of the disease. The current review focuses on the utility of flow cytometry in the workup of ALLs, including the usefulness of various antibodies and pitfalls in diagnosis.