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

TLDR

The clinical indications for diagnostic flow cytometry are evolving, with expanding knowledge of antigenic definitions and prognostic significance, yet standard practice is not routinely communicated, creating uncertainty among clinicians, payers, and diagnostic physicians. The Clinical Cytometry Society convened a two‑day international expert meeting to reach consensus on the contemporary diagnostic utility of immunophenotypic flow cytometry for diagnosing and monitoring hematolymphoid malignancies. The consensus report, approved unanimously, outlines the appropriate use of diagnostic flow cytometry in these patients. © 2007 Clinical Cytometry Society.

Abstract

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. © 2007 Clinical Cytometry Society