Overview: CD3 Flow Cytometry Test
Introduction: The CD3 Flow Cytometry Test detects CD3 markers to diagnose immune deficiencies or lymphoma, causing frequent infections or fatigue. Aligned with 2023 ASH guidelines, it uses flow cytometry for high specificity, aiding in cancer and immune screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment, and improving outcomes in hematology for patients with suspected immune deficiencies or lymphoma.

Other Names: CD3 Flow Assay, T-Cell Receptor Test.

FDA Status: Laboratory-developed test (LDT), meeting hematology standards for diagnostic accuracy.

Historical Milestone: CD3 testing began in the 1980s with immune and lymphoma research. Flow cytometry emerged in the 1990s, and standardized panels improved accuracy by the 2000s.

Purpose: Diagnoses immune deficiencies or lymphoma, guides treatment, and monitors CD3 markers in patients with frequent infections or fatigue.

Test Parameters: 1. CD3

Pretest Condition: No fasting required. Collect whole blood or bone marrow at any time. Report symptoms like frequent infections or fatigue, and list medications.

Specimen: 2-5 mL whole blood (EDTA) or 2-5 mL bone marrow (EDTA). Transport in a biohazard bag within 24 hours.

Sample Stability at Room Temperature: 24 hours

Sample Stability at Refrigeration: 48 hours

Sample Stability at Frozen: Not frozen

Medical History: Document frequent infections, fatigue, or history of immune deficiencies/lymphoma. Include current medications, especially immunosuppressants.

Consent: Written consent required, detailing the tests purpose, diagnostic implications, and potential need for therapy.

Procedural Considerations: Uses flow cytometry to detect CD3 markers. Results are available in 1-2 days, enabling rapid clinical decisions.

Factors Affecting Result Accuracy: Poor sample quality or low cell yield can affect results. Non-malignant conditions may express CD3.

Clinical Significance: Abnormal CD3 expression suggests immune deficiencies or lymphoma, prompting treatment. Normal results may require additional testing.

Specialist Consultation: Consult a hematologist or immunologist for result interpretation.

Additional Supporting Tests: Bone marrow biopsy, other flow cytometry markers, or immunoglobulin levels to confirm diagnosis.

Test Limitations: Non-specific expression may occur in non-malignant conditions. Results require clinical correlation.

References: ASH Lymphoma Guidelines, 2023; Blood, Swerdlow SH, 2022.