Overview: Total Stem Cells TestIntroduction: The Total Stem Cells Test counts stem cells in bone marrow to assess bone marrow function or transplant potential, helping diagnose leukemias or guide transplant therapy. Affecting 1 in 100,000 people with hematologic issues, stem cell counts pose diagnostic challenges due to variable levels. Following 2023 National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) guidelines, it uses flow cytometry for high accuracy, supporting hematology screening. This test is essential for diagnosis, treatment planning, and improving outcomes in hematology.
Other Names: Stem Cell Count Test, Bone Marrow Stem Cell Assay.
FDA Status: FDA-approved test, meeting hematology standards for diagnostic reliability.
Historical Milestone: Stem cell counting began in the 1990s with research by Civin, who identified CD34+ cells. Flow cytometry advancements by BD Biosciences improved detection, surpassing earlier manual methods.
Purpose: Counts stem cell count to assess bone marrow function or transplant potential, guides transplantation or therapy, and evaluates patients with fatigue, aiming to manage disease.
Test Parameters: Stem cell count
Pretest Condition: Bone marrow biopsy required. Collect bone marrow or whole blood. Report history of blood disorders.
Specimen: Whole Blood (EDTA, 2-5 mL), Bone Marrow (EDTA, 1-3 mL); Bone marrow in sterile container. Transport in a biohazard container.
Sample Stability at Room Temperature: 24 hours
Sample Stability at Refrigeration: 48 hours
Sample Stability at Frozen: Not recommended
Medical History: Document fatigue or abnormal blood counts. Include current medications or family history.
Consent: Written consent required, detailing the test's purpose, disease risks (e.g., leukemia), and sample collection risks.
Procedural Considerations: Uses flow cytometry to count cells, requiring labs with specialized equipment. Results available in 1-2 days. Performed in labs with strict handling.
Factors Affecting Result Accuracy: Sample delay or contamination can affect results. Medications may alter counts, requiring correlation.
Clinical Significance: Low count suggests marrow failure, guiding therapy. Early intervention might improve survival, while untreated cases lead to death. Normal count may require other tests.
Specialist Consultation: Consult a hematologist for interpretation.
Additional Supporting Tests: Bone marrow biopsy, CBC, or cytogenetics to confirm diagnosis.
Test Limitations: Non-specific for cause; correlation with clinical status needed. False results possible with technical errors.
References: NMDP Guidelines, 2023; Blood, Civin CI, 2022.
