Overview: CD1A Flow Cytometry TestIntroduction: The CD1A Flow Cytometry Test detects CD1A markers to diagnose lymphoma, causing swollen lymph nodes or fever. 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 lymphoma.
Other Names: CD1A Flow Assay, T-Cell Antigen Test.
FDA Status: Laboratory-developed test (LDT), meeting hematology standards for diagnostic accuracy.
Historical Milestone: CD1A testing began in the 1990s with lymphoma research. Flow cytometry emerged in the 2000s, improving accuracy for marker detection.
Purpose: Diagnoses lymphoma, guides treatment, and monitors CD1A markers in patients with swollen lymph nodes or fever.
Test Parameters: 1. CD1A
Pretest Condition: No fasting required. Collect whole blood or bone marrow at any time. Report symptoms like swollen lymph nodes or fever, 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 swollen lymph nodes, fever, or history of 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 CD1A 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 CD1A.
Clinical Significance: Positive CD1A expression suggests 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, or PET scan to confirm lymphoma.
Test Limitations: Non-specific expression may occur in non-malignant conditions. Results require clinical correlation.
References: ASH Lymphoma Guidelines, 2023; Blood, Swerdlow SH, 2022.
