Health Encyclopedia

B-cell leukemia/lymphoma panel

Definition

B-cell leukemia/lymphoma panel is a test that looks for specific proteins on the surface of white blood cells called B-lymphocytes. The proteins serve as markers that may be helpful in the diagnosis of leukemia or lymphoma.

Alternative Names

B lymphocyte cell surface markers

How the test is performed

A sample of white blood cells is obtained by drawing blood from a vein, or less commonly, bone marrow biopsy. The test may also be done on a lymph node biopsy when lymphoma is suspected.

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic. An elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the vein to swell with blood.

A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In infants or young children, the area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. A bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any bleeding.

In the laboratory, the sample of white blood cells will undergo immunophenotyping (determination of the specific cell type and characteristics).

How to prepare for the test

No special preparation is usually necessary.

How the test will feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed

This test may be performed when other tests (such as a blood smear) indicate abnormal white blood cells, when leukemia or lymphoma is suspected, or to differentiate the type of leukemia or lymphoma.

What abnormal results mean

Abnormal results on this test may indicate lymphocytic leukemia or lymphoma. Leukemia is the uncontrolled growth of white blood cells. Lymphoma is a tumor of the lymph nodes or lymph tissue.

What the risks are

Excessive bleeding
Fainting or feeling light-headed
Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Multiple punctures to locate veins

Special considerations

This test is highly specialized and may not be available at all general laboratories.

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Review Date:6/10/2008
Reviewed By:James R. Mason, MD, Oncologist, Director, Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program and Stem Cell Processing Lab, Scripps Clinic, Torrey Pines, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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