Bloody Minded Episode 28 - In the Lab: Flow Cytometry, Mass Spectrometry & Cytogenetics in MM
Dec 17, 2024
Dive into the fascinating world of advanced diagnostic techniques like flow cytometry and mass spectrometry, especially in the context of multiple myeloma. Discover how flow cytometry deciphers cell characteristics with lasers and fluorescent tags. The importance of quality control in labs unfolds alongside the wizardry of mass spectrometry for analyzing paraproteins. Explore cytogenetic concepts like karyotyping and chromosomal abnormalities, revealing their crucial roles in prognosis. Science and humor collide, making complex topics accessible and engaging!
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Use Euroflow Guidelines
- Use Euroflow consortium guidelines for standardized sample preparation, antibody panels, and data analysis in flow cytometry.
- These guidelines optimize identification of small cell populations and minimal residual disease detection.
Flow Markers in Myeloma
- Myeloma plasma cells are identified by CD38 and CD138 expression and clonal restriction via kappa or lambda light chains.
- Aberrant expression of markers like CD56, CD19, CD20, or CD117 helps differentiate malignant from normal plasma cells.
Flow Underestimates Plasma Cells
- Flow cytometry often underestimates plasma cell counts compared to morphology due to stickiness, patchy localization, and sample processing losses.
- Reported monoclonal plasma cell percentages by flow may be significantly lower than true marrow levels.