A haematopathology workflow is based on the clinical presentation of a patient, followed by an initial blood test, review of peripheral blood, a bone marrow aspirate and additional testing that may include flow cytometry, cytogenetics and molecular testing. With the increasing number of molecular tests being integrated into the diagnostic workflow, it has become an essential tool in providing a diagnosis, prognosis and guiding targeted therapeutic decisions. Molecular technologies are evolving, making it possible to accurately identify genetic variants and classify neoplasms. Combining molecular tests with haematology is vital in improving patient care and can be monitored through participation in external quality assurance (EQA) programs. EQA participation in both haematology and molecular areas promotes standardisation across laboratories. Here we present the impact of incorporating haematology and molecular genetic testing, illustrated through a case favouring an initial diagnosis of acute monoblastic leukaemia based on morphology. Through the integration of tests, a new diagnosis was established in this case. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of laboratory performance across disciplines will promote reliability, consistency and accuracy.
Munusamy et al. (Sun,) studied this question.