Tracking Residual Disease in Myeloma With Flow Cytometry
November 27, 2025
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2 min
A recent study highlights the role of flow cytometry in diagnosing and monitoring plasma cell neoplasms, particularly multiple myeloma. Over 95% of these neoplasms demonstrate a loss of CD19, a significant immunophenotypic abnormality. Normal plasma cells display distinct markers such as bright CD38 and positivity for CD19 and CD138, while neoplastic cells show altered markers, helping differentiate them effectively. The study emphasizes the importance of measurable residual disease (MRD) testing and the influence of markers on prognostic outcomes, especially post-therapy.
1. Over 95% of plasma cell neoplasms exhibit loss of CD19. 2. Flow cytometry differentiates normal from neoplastic plasma cells effectively. 3. Normal plasma cells show bright CD38, positivity for CD19 and CD138. 4. Anti-CD38 agents like daratumumab can affect detection. 5. MRD testing is crucial for monitoring post-therapy outcomes. 6. Persisting MRD correlates with inferior progression-free survival. 7. Panel design and accurate gating are key in flow cytometry.
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