How is B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of B-cell prolymphocytic leukemia (B-PLL) involves a combination of blood tests, bone marrow tests, and imaging tests. Here is a detailed description of each type of test:
Blood Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures the amount of different types of cells in the blood. In B-PLL, there is usually a high number of lymphocytes. Patients typically present with a rapidly rising white blood cell count, often >100,000/microL.
Peripheral blood smear: To diagnose B-PLL, cells called prolymphocytes need to make up more than 55% of the lymphoid cells in peripheral blood.
Bone Marrow Tests:
Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy: These tests involve taking a small sample of bone marrow, usually from the hip bone, and examining it under a microscope. The presence of a high number of prolymphocytes can indicate B-PLL.
Immunohistochemistry: This test uses antibodies to detect specific proteins on the surface of cells in a bone marrow sample. It can help confirm a diagnosis of B-PLL.
Cytogenetic analysis: This test looks for changes in the chromosomes of cells. Certain changes like MYC rearrangements can suggest B-PLL.
Flow cytometry: This test is used to identify proteins present on the surface of B-cells.
Imaging Tests:
Computed Tomography (CT) scan: This imaging test can help determine the size and location of any enlarged lymph nodes or organs such as the spleen, which can be a sign of B-PLL.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This test can provide detailed images of the body and can be used to assess the extent of the disease.
A Summary of Diagnosing B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia
It's important to note that the diagnosis and classification of B-PLL is complex and requires a comprehensive evaluation by a team of specialists. A complete diagnosis requires a physical examination, looking at a bone marrow sample under the microscope, immunophenotyping and often molecular genetic testing. Genetic features such as complex karyotype, MYC gene abnormalities and 17p deletion including TP53 are frequent features of B-PLL. The specific markers and genetic changes found in the bone marrow sample can also help determine a person's prognosis and guide treatment decisions. If you don't currently have an B-PLL specialist on your team, it is important that you consult with one. Use HealthTree's B-PLL Specialist Directory to locate a specialist near you.
Want to Learn More About B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?
Keep reading HealthTree for B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia's 101 pages!
Want to learn more? Click Guide (3/6): What is B-Cell Prolymphocytic Leukemia?