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CLL-MRD (Minimal Residual Disease) Testing by Flow Cytometry

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)-MRD testing utilizes a 12-antibody flow cytometry panel in concert with a sequential gating strategy to isolate pure CLL B-cells from normal B-cells and regenerating cells. This process allows for the differentiation of 1 CLL cell in 10,000 normal B-cells and provides a quantitative measurement of the MRD status of patients with CLL who are undergoing therapy. Patients who achieve CLL-MRD-negative status have improved overall and progression-free survival. This test is not suitable for making primary diagnosis or monitoring unreated CLL patients with a high tumor load.

CPT Codes:

88184(1), 88185(11), 88188(1) (units of 88185 vary depending on the number of antibodies tested)


Specimen Requirements:

Please Note: There must be a minimum of 5 million cells in the specimen submitted to perform the test (10 million cells preferred).

  1. Peripheral Blood:
    • 10-20 ml in sodium heparin (green-top) tube.
  2. Bone Marrow Aspirate:
    • 2-3 ml in sodium heparin (green-top) tube.

Turnaround Time:

24-48 hours


Client Services: Oncology/Pathology   800-447-5816

Specimen Services/Pickup:  877-246-1226