Monotypic Plasma Cells in Blood by Flow Cytometry
This test uses flow cytometry to look for plasma cells in a blood sample that are all alike (monotypic), which can be a sign of a plasma cell disorder. It is usually done as part of an evaluation when abnormal plasma cells are suspected or being monitored.
["The test checks whether plasma cells in the blood share a single, uniform pattern that may point to a clonal (abnormal) plasma cell process."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86900-8
- Short code
- Monotypic plasma cells Bld FC
- Synonyms
- Monotypic plasma cells Bld FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Being Measured
Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that normally make antibodies. In a healthy immune response, plasma cells are a mix of many different types, so they vary from one another. This test looks at plasma cells in the blood to see whether they are monotypic—meaning they appear uniform and come from a single cell line rather than a diverse mixture.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is analyzed by flow cytometry, a lab method that uses specialized instruments to examine many individual cells one at a time. It identifies plasma cells and assesses surface or internal markers to judge whether the population is uniform (monotypic) or varied (polytypic). The method is sometimes called immunophenotyping.
Why Your Doctor Ordered It
Your doctor may order this test when blood counts or other results suggest an abnormal plasma cell population, when a plasma cell disorder is suspected, or to help monitor a known condition. It is often used alongside other blood and bone marrow tests rather than by itself.
What the Results Mean
Results describe whether a monotypic plasma cell population is present and, if so, what markers characterize it. A monotypic finding can support further evaluation for a clonal plasma cell disorder, while a mixed (polytypic) population is generally less concerning. Your doctor will interpret the result together with your history, exam, and other laboratory findings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Monotypic Plasma Cells, Blood
Frequently asked questions
Does a monotypic result always mean I have cancer?
Is this the same as a bone marrow test?
Do I need to fast or prepare for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy