Flow Cytometry
Flow cytometry is an advanced diagnostic technique that analyzes cell populations by examining their size and specific surface proteins. This testing is crucial for distinguishing between reactive and neoplastic conditions and provides detailed immunophenotyping for identifying cancerous cell populations. In canine patients, flow cytometry is typically preferred for immunophenotyping as it effectively supports both diagnostic and prognostic evaluations. For feline patients, however, non-cancerous lymphocyte proliferation in blood and tissues is more common, and fewer antibodies are available, limiting the test’s utility for cats.
Test name
Flow Cytometry
Test Code
1005
Section
Cancer Diagnostics
Species
Canine and Feline
Specimen
Blood and Bone Marrow:
- Collect a minimum of 1 mL of blood or bone marrow in an EDTA tube.
- Ensure a complete blood count (CBC) is available, performed within the last two days. Please include a copy of the CBC results along with the submission form.
- Please include a fresh blood smear(s).
Lymph Node, Mediastinal, and Organ Aspirates:
- Prepare a non-additive (red-top) tube by adding 1 mL of saline solution (0.9% NaCl, RL)..
- Add 0.1 mL of serum from the same patient to the saline in the tube.
- Aspirate the sample with gentle suction, then deposit it into the prepared tube. Rinse the syringe by drawing up the saline-serum mixture and re-injecting it back into the tube without creating bubbles.
- Repeat the aspiration and rinsing until the solution becomes turbid, indicating adequate cell concentration for flow cytometry.
Cavity Fluid:
- Whenever possible, submit both an EDTA tube and a red-top tube containing at least 500 µL (0.5 ml) of cavity fluid. If sample volume is limited, prioritize an EDTA tube.
- For samples with total protein below 4 mg/dL, add a few drops of serum to improve sample stability.
Collection Container
Blood and Bone Marrow: EDTA Tube
Lymph Node, Mediastinal, and Organ Aspirates: Red Top Tube
Cavity Fluid: EDTA Tube
Turnaround time
14-21
Packing Instructions
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label. Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
References
- Wilkerson, M.J., et al. “Diagnostic Immunophenotyping of Canine and Feline Hematopoietic Tumors.” Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2021.
- Avery, A.C., & Lana, S. “Immunophenotyping and Molecular Testing for Hematopoietic Tumors.” Veterinary Pathology, 2020.
- Hartmann, K., et al. “Lymphoma and Leukemia in Cats: Current Diagnostic and Treatment Perspectives.” Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2022.
