Overview: CD34 Flow Cytometry Test
Introduction: The CD34 Flow Cytometry Test detects CD34 markers to assess stem cell activity or leukemia, causing fatigue or bone pain. Aligned with 2023 ASH guidelines, it uses flow cytometry for high specificity, aiding in cancer and stem cell screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment, and improving outcomes in hematology for patients with suspected leukemia or stem cell disorders.

Other Names: CD34 Flow Assay, Stem Cell Marker Test.

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

Historical Milestone: CD34 testing began in the 1990s with stem cell and leukemia research. Flow cytometry emerged in the 2000s, improving accuracy for marker detection.

Purpose: Diagnoses leukemia or stem cell disorders, guides treatment, and monitors CD34 markers in patients with fatigue or bone pain.

Test Parameters: 1. CD34

Pretest Condition: No fasting required. Collect whole blood or bone marrow at any time. Report symptoms like fatigue or bone pain, 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 fatigue, bone pain, or history of leukemia/stem cell disorders. Include current medications, especially chemotherapeutics.

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

Procedural Considerations: Uses flow cytometry to detect CD34 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 CD34.

Clinical Significance: Positive CD34 expression suggests leukemia or stem cell disorders, prompting treatment. Negative results may require additional testing.

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

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

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

References: ASH Leukemia Guidelines, 2023; Blood, Arber DA, 2022.