Clinical applications of flow cytometry in hematology and immunology.

OBJECTIVE: To review the major applications of flow cytometry in the diagnosis of hematologic and immunologic disease. DATA SOURCES: Professional literature and authors' experience. DATA SYNTHESIS: Flow cytometry is evolving as a major diagnostic tool for evaluating hematologic disease, monitoring HIV infection and assessing peripheral blood and bone marrow for CD34 positive stem cells in marrow transplantation. This review highlights the opportunities and pitfalls of this area of diagnostic laboratory medicine. CONCLUSION: The applications of flow cytometers in diagnostic hematology and immunology are expanding, providing new opportunities for enhanced precision in diagnosis. As in any relatively new field much work remains in order to optimize accuracy and efficiency while minimizing cost.