What is flow cytometry used for?

A sample is mixed into a fluid stream and passed through a laser-based instrument. The instrument records features such as cell size, internal complexity, and markers on the cell surface or inside the cell. A laboratory specialist then examines the pattern of markers across groups of cells.

In oncology, this can help distinguish normal cells from abnormal populations and can support the classification of conditions such as leukaemia or lymphoma. It may also help assess whether an abnormal cell population remains after treatment. The test is an analysis of sampled cells; it does not by itself describe every feature of a tumour or replace clinical assessment.

Flow cytometry may be performed on blood, bone marrow, lymph node material, or another suitable sample. The sample collection method depends on the clinical question. Before collection, tell the care team about medicines, bleeding problems, and any difficulty with previous procedures. Ask when the laboratory expects to issue the report and which findings will guide the next step.

Contact the healthcare team promptly if the sampling site continues to bleed, becomes increasingly swollen, or develops spreading redness, drainage, or worsening pain. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, fainting, severe breathing difficulty, or sudden confusion after a procedure.

Ask which sample will be tested, what condition the laboratory is evaluating, whether additional tests are planned, and how the result may affect diagnosis or treatment.