Acute leukemia immunohistochemistry: a systematic diagnostic approach
Randall J Olsen1, Chung-Che Chang, Jennifer L Herrick
1Department of Pathology, The Methodist Hospital, 6565 Fannin St, M227, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
|March 6, 2008
Summary
Immunohistochemistry aids in classifying acute leukemias when advanced methods like flow cytometry are unavailable. This technique uses antibody panels on tissue samples for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Pathology
- Immunology
Background:
- Leukemia diagnosis and classification are complex, integrating morphology, immunophenotype, genetics, and clinical data.
- Microscopic examination and blast immunophenotyping with lineage-specific markers are crucial for pathological evaluation.
- While sophisticated methods exist, a well-chosen antibody panel can aid acute leukemia diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review developments in diagnosing acute leukemias using immunohistochemistry.
- To emphasize general immunohistochemical staining patterns for common lymphoid and myeloid leukemias.
- To discuss immunostaining strategies when flow cytometry and genetic studies are not accessible.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review of PubMed-indexed articles and medical texts was conducted.
- Additional references were identified from the reviewed manuscripts.
- Focus on immunohistochemical staining patterns and diagnostic strategies.
Main Results:
- Presents immunophenotyping of blasts via immunohistochemistry for lymphoid and myeloid malignancies.
- Suggests antibody panels for differential diagnosis and diagnostic evaluation strategy.
- Demonstrates the utility of immunohistochemistry in specific clinical scenarios.
Conclusions:
- Immunohistochemistry is a valuable tool for classifying acute leukemias, especially when flow cytometry and genetic studies are unavailable.
- An optimized immunohistochemical approach, combined with careful morphologic examination, aids in diagnosis.
- While limited alone, it serves as a useful laboratory method for leukemia classification.
