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Unstimulated
Peripheral Blood
Description
Includes short term (24 hour and 48 hour) unstimulated cultures
of peripheral blood cells. For suspected chronic B-cell malignancies
longer term (3-7 days) pokeweed stimulated cultures are also established.
Cytogenetic evaluation includes detailed analysis of 20 cells and
at least two banded karyotypes. The referring physician is called
with the results as soon as they are available.
Indications
Usually bone marrow is the specimen of choice for hematologic neoplastic
disorders. However, for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, peripheral
blood is the recommended specimen. In patients with chronic myelogenous
leukemia or acute leukemias, the peripheral blood may have an adequate
number of spontaneously dividing cells for cytogenetic analysis.
In these cases there is usually a high white blood cell count with
a significant percentage of blasts and/or immature white cells.
Specimen Requirements
7 cc peripheral blood in a green-top (sodium heparin) tube. Invert
several times to mix blood. Culture of clotted blood often does
not result in spontaneously dividing cells necessary for cytogenetic
analysis. Other anticoagulants such as lithium heparin may be harmful
to the viability of the cells. Specimen may be refrigerated. Specimen
cannot be frozen. Label with patient's name and laboratory control
number. Send to Great Lakes Genetics as soon as possible. Include
a copy of a recent peripheral blood CBC with differential and indicate
the suspected diagnosis on the Requisition
for Cytogenetic Diagnostic Services form.
Reference Value
46,XX or 46,XY
Turn Around Time
2-8 days (generally 3 days)
CPT Codes
88262 - chromosome analysis, hematologic disorders
88230 - blood culture for chromosome analysis
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