Name of the Procedure:

Mononuclear Cell Antigen, Quantitative (e.g., Flow Cytometry), Not Otherwise Specified, Each Antigen

Summary

This procedure measures specific antigens present on the surface of mononuclear cells (a type of white blood cell) using a technique called flow cytometry. It involves tagging cells with fluorescent markers and passing them through a laser to detect and quantify these antigens.

Purpose

This test is used to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, including immune system disorders, blood cancers, and infections. The goal is to provide precise information about the immune cells and their antigens, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Suspicion of immune system disorders like HIV/AIDS
• Blood cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma
• Monitoring immune cell populations in patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or bone marrow transplant
• Unexplained infections or inflammation

Preparation

• No special fasting is usually required.
• Patients may need to discontinue certain medications, but this should be done under the guidance of a physician.
• A blood sample is generally taken, so staying hydrated can be beneficial.

Procedure Description

1. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm.
2. The sample is mixed with antibodies that bind to specific antigens on the surface of mononuclear cells.
3. These antibodies are tagged with fluorescent markers.
4. The sample is run through a flow cytometer, which uses lasers to detect the fluorescent markers and measure the quantity of each antigen.

• Tools: Flow cytometer, laser light sources, fluorescent markers, antibodies
• Anesthesia: Not applicable

Duration

The blood draw takes only a few minutes. The flow cytometry analysis can take a few hours to complete, but this is done in a lab.

Setting

• Typically performed in a hospital laboratory or a specialized diagnostic clinic

Personnel

• Phlebotomist (for blood draw)
• Laboratory technicians
• Pathologists or specialists in immunology

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks: slight pain or bruising at the blood draw site
• Rare: infection at the puncture site or fainting

Benefits

• Accurate and detailed information about immune cell populations
• Helps in the diagnosis and monitoring of various medical conditions
• Results can guide treatment decisions

Recovery

• No specific recovery time is needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Follow-up may be required to discuss the results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential: Less specific but provides general information on blood cells.
• Bone Marrow Biopsy: More invasive, used for detailed bone marrow analysis.
• Imaging tests or other blood tests depending on the condition being investigated.

Patient Experience

• Minor discomfort or pain during the blood draw.
• Post-procedure, most patients feel fine and face no restrictions.
• Any discomfort can usually be managed with basic care like applying a cold pack to the puncture site.