How is Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm Diagnosed?

Diagnosing blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is challenging due to the limited research and understanding of the disease. Its rarity often leads to delayed diagnosis, which can impact treatment and outcomes. Identifying BPDCN requires a comprehensive approach that includes physical exams, laboratory testing, and imaging. The following sections outline the key tests used to detect and confirm a BPDCN diagnosis.

Physical Examination

• Full skin assessment: A dermatologist examines for lesions or unusual marks on the skin.  These lesions can range is size and color and can be located anywhere on the body. 

Laboratory Tests

• Complete blood count: Measures the amount and sizes of different types of cells in the blood. These test results can help identify signs of bone marrow involvement and guide further testing.
• Bone marrow aspiration: Removes a small amount of bone marrow for analysis of its cellular composition. The sample is examined for abnormal cells using flow cytometry and immunophenotyping.
• Lymph node biopsy: Removes all or part of a lymph node to check for disease involvement in the lymphatic system. This test helps confirm whether the disease has spread beyond the skin or bone marrow. Additional tests, such as immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, may be performed on the biopsy sample to identify specific markers that confirm a BPDCN diagnosis.
• Lumbar puncture: Examines the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. This test is crucial for determining whether the disease has spread beyond the bone marrow and lymph nodes.
• Cytogenetic testing: Examines the chromosomes within cells to detect structural abnormalities or changes in chromosome number that may provide diagnostic information relevant to BPDCN.
• Next-generation sequencing: Detects variants or mutations in RNA and DNA. This test helps identify genetic changes that may influence treatment decisions, including targeted therapies or clinical trial options.

Imaging Tests

• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan: Uses a small amount of radioactive substance to measure the function of tissues and organs.
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan: Uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of the body.

A Summary of Diagnosing Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm

It’s important to note that diagnosing BPDCN is complex and requires a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team of medical specialists. An accurate and timely diagnosis is critical for initiating the appropriate treatment and improving outcomes for people with BPDCN. If you don’t currently have a BPDCN specialist on your medical team, it is important that you consult with one. Use HealthTree's BPDCN Specialist Directory to find a specialist near you. Use HealthTree's BPDCN Specialist Directory to locate a specialist near you. 

Want to Learn More About Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm?

Keep reading HealthTree for Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm's 101 pages!

• What Is Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm?
• How Long Will I Live With Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm?
• How Is Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm Staged And Classified?
• What Are Treatments For Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm?

Sources: 

North American BPDCN Consortium: positions on standards of care and areas of need

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: Our Approach to BPDCN Treatment