Utility of Flow Cytometry Analysis in the Detection of Nonhematologic Neoplasms: An Overview

Abstract

Flow cytometry analysis has stood the test of time as a powerful tool in the assessment of hematologic neoplasms. The role of flow cytometry has expanded to evaluate various nonhematologic neoplasms encountered in body cavity malignant effusions, lymph nodes, and other body sites. This review explores the use of routine antibody panels as well as specially designed multicolor antibody panels that have been investigated by different groups and reported in the literature for evaluating nonhematologic neoplasms. In this context, the limitations, pitfalls, future directions, and promising applications of flow cytometry analysis are also discussed.

Keywords: Carcinoma; Effusion; Flow cytometry; Neoplasm; Nonhematologic; Nonhematopoietic; Pediatric; Solid tumor.