B-cell leukemia/lymphoma panel

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

B lymphocyte cell surface markers

A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture

Less commonly, white blood cells are removed during a bone marrow biopsy. The sample may also be taken during after a lymph node biopsy or other biopsy when lymphoma is suspected.

The blood sample is sent to a laboratory, where the specialist checks the cell type and characteristics. This procedure is called immunophenotyping. The test is usually done using a technique called flow cytometry.

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No special preparation is usually necessary.

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.

This test may be performed:

• When other tests (such as a blood smear) indicate abnormal white blood cells
• When leukemia or lymphoma is suspected
• To determine the type of leukemia or lymphoma

Review Date: 02/28/2011
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).