Flow cytometric analysis of lymphomas.

Flow cytometry is rapidly developing as an important tool in the characterization of lymphomas. Analysis of cell surface antigens and DNA content in these tumors provides useful biologic information that can be applied advantageously to their diagnosis and classification. In this article we examine practical aspects of handling, preparation, and staining of lymphoid samples for flow cytometry and delineate approaches to data analysis and interpretation. We discuss specific applications, advantages, and limitations of the technique in the evaluation of neoplastic lymphoid diseases.