[HTML][HTML] EuroClonality/BIOMED-2 guidelines for interpretation and reporting of Ig/TCR clonality testing in suspected lymphoproliferations

AW Langerak, PJTA Groenen, M Brüggemann… - Leukemia, 2012 - nature.com
AW Langerak, PJTA Groenen, M Brüggemann, K Beldjord, C Bellan, L Bonello, E Boone…
Leukemia, 2012nature.com
Abstract PCR-based immunoglobulin (Ig)/T-cell receptor (TCR) clonality testing in suspected
lymphoproliferations has largely been standardized and has consequently become
technically feasible in a routine diagnostic setting. Standardization of the pre-analytical and
post-analytical phases is now essential to prevent misinterpretation and incorrect
conclusions derived from clonality data. As clonality testing is not a quantitative assay, but
rather concerns recognition of molecular patterns, guidelines for reliable interpretation and …
Abstract
PCR-based immunoglobulin (Ig)/T-cell receptor (TCR) clonality testing in suspected lymphoproliferations has largely been standardized and has consequently become technically feasible in a routine diagnostic setting. Standardization of the pre-analytical and post-analytical phases is now essential to prevent misinterpretation and incorrect conclusions derived from clonality data. As clonality testing is not a quantitative assay, but rather concerns recognition of molecular patterns, guidelines for reliable interpretation and reporting are mandatory. Here, the EuroClonality (BIOMED-2) consortium summarizes important pre-and post-analytical aspects of clonality testing, provides guidelines for interpretation of clonality testing results, and presents a uniform way to report the results of the Ig/TCR assays. Starting from an immunobiological concept, two levels to report Ig/TCR profiles are discerned: the technical description of individual (multiplex) PCR reactions and the overall molecular conclusion for B and T cells. Collectively, the EuroClonality (BIOMED-2) guidelines and consensus reporting system should help to improve the general performance level of clonality assessment and interpretation, which will directly impact on routine clinical management (standardized best-practice) in patients with suspected lymphoproliferations.
nature.com