Flow Cytometry is used for the immunophenotypic analysis of leukemias and lymphomas, lymphocyte subsets for immune status evaluation in patients with acquired and primary immune deficiencies and CD34 count for marrow transplantation. The resident is instructed in the technical and theoretical aspects of Flow Cytometry and Image Analysis including sample preparation, instrument setting and correlation with the clinical information and immunopathologic mechanisms.
Strong emphasis is placed on quality control and safety procedures.
The resident is responsible for communication and discussion with the appropriate clinician or pathologist. The resident becomes familiar with the theory, technology, quality control and troubleshooting of the various techniques and instrumentations used. Residents learn the reasons for submitting specimens to reference laboratories, e.g., PCR, and these account for 5-10 samples per day. This includes tests for the detection of antigens and antibodies in various body fluids and tissue. Factors that might interfere with or produce errors in the various immunoassay techniques are also emphasized.