Guidelines for an integrated diagnostic approach of chronic lymphoproliferative diseases in the routine laboratory of haematology in Belgium

This paper summarizes the minimal workout of chronic lymphoproliferative disorders in a routine laboratory of haematology as recommended by a team of experienced laboratory supervisors in Belgium, taking into account the specific organisation of healthcare in Belgium, the innovations in the field of molecular analyses and related reimbursement. The starting point was essentially based upon clinical and/or haematological indications and it is emphasized that conclusions should be drawn in close dialogue with the clinician and experts in cytogenetics and histopathology. Reports made in the laboratory should be based upon an integration of cytomorphological, immunophenotypical and molecular data.These guidelines are not intended to be used as universal' diagnostic pathways', but should be useful in developing local diagnostic pathways. It is well understood that this consensus, being valid anno 2009, may rapidly change with new technologies being introduced and new targets discovered.This paper summarizes the minimal workout of chronic lymphoproliferative disorders in a routine laboratory of haematology as recommended by a team of experienced laboratory supervisors in Belgium, taking into account the specific organisation of healthcare in Belgium, the innovations in the field of molecular analyses and related reimbursement. The starting point was essentially based upon clinical and/or haematological indications and it is emphasized that conclusions should be drawn in close dialogue with the clinician and experts in cytogenetics and histopathology. Reports made in the laboratory should be based upon an integration of cytomorphological, immunophenotypical and molecular data.These guidelines are not intended to be used as universal' diagnostic pathways', but should be useful in developing local diagnostic pathways. It is well understood that this consensus, being valid anno 2009, may rapidly change with new technologies being introduced and new targets discovered.A