Overview: CD7 Flow Cytometry Test
Introduction: The CD7 Flow Cytometry Test detects CD7 markers to diagnose leukemia or lymphoma, causing fatigue or frequent infections. Following 2023 ASH guidelines, it uses flow cytometry for high specificity, aiding in cancer screening. This test is critical for guiding diagnosis, treatment, and improving outcomes in hematology for patients with suspected hematologic malignancies.

Other Names: CD7 Flow Assay, T-Cell Marker Test.

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

Historical Milestone: CD7 testing began in the 1980s with leukemia research. Flow cytometry emerged in the 1990s, and standardized panels improved accuracy by the 2000s.

Purpose: Diagnoses leukemia or lymphoma, guides treatment, and monitors CD7 markers in patients with fatigue or frequent infections.

Test Parameters: 1. CD7

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

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

Procedural Considerations: Uses flow cytometry to detect CD7 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 CD7.

Clinical Significance: Positive CD7 expression suggests leukemia or lymphoma, prompting treatment. Negative results may require additional marker testing.

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

Additional Supporting Tests: Bone marrow biopsy, other flow cytometry markers (e.g., CD2, CD3), or cytogenetic testing to confirm leukemia/lymphoma.

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

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