Flow cytometric MRD detection in selected mature B-cell malignancies

Abstract

The quantification of submicroscopic minimal residual disease (MRD) after therapy proved to have independent prognostic significance in many mature B-cell malignancies. With the advent of routine bench-top cytometers capable of simultaneously analyzing ≥4 colors and with improved standardization, fl ow cytometry has become the method of choice for MRD assessments in some lymphoma entities. Herein we describe general aspects of fl ow cytometric standardization. Using chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) as examples we explain in detail the application of fl ow cytometry for MRD detection. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2013.