Cytometric immunophenotyping is one of the most powerful methods in acute leukemia diagnostics. Main advantages are its speed, reliability and knowledge of parameters investigated at a single-cell level.
Disadvantages may include relative expensiveness compared to some basic methods. Cytometric immunophenotyping should be interpreted by an expert and reported to the clinical physician so that all relevant questions regarding the patient's classification and treatment are addressed adequately.
Flow cytometry can evaluate other parameters such as the DNA contents or proteome analysis. Practical diagnostic usefulness of the newest generation multiparametric instruments is being assessed.