Cytogenetics in Hematooncology

Abstract

Cytogenetic methods are widely used during diagnosis in many types of hematological malignancies. Classical methods like karyotyping using GTG banding technique and molecular methods like fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) are still gold standard in clinics all over the world. According to WHO 2008 classification the cytogenetic analysis is the basic diagnostic tool during the diagnosis of blood neoplasms. Chromosomal abnormalities have established and known prognostic significance. According to the European Leukemia Net-Workpackage Cytogenetics – the cytogenetic diagnostic is essential for disease classification, prognostic assessment and treatment decisions. Despite the fact that new molecular methods are very promising the classical cytogenetic methods together with FISH are still the reference test in many hematological neoplasms.