How to read a flow cytometry report
Oct 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, interpreting a flow cytometry report requires analysis based on the images. Histograms are commonly used for analyzing cell cycle distribution. The horizontal axis represents the relative intensity of fluorescent signals or scattered light signals, which can be displayed on either a linear or logarithmic scale, while the vertical axis indicates the relative number of cells. Dot plots are fundamental bivariate graphs, in which both the horizontal and vertical axes represent optical signals.
Generally, how to interpret a flow cytometry report requires judgment based on images. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Histogram: Histograms are commonly used for cell cycle analysis. The horizontal axis represents the relative intensity of fluorescent signals or scattered light signals, which can be linear or logarithmic, while the vertical axis indicates the relative number of cells.
2. Dot plot: A dot plot is the basic graph for bivariate analysis. Both the horizontal and vertical axes represent optical signals, with each point on the plot corresponding to information from a single cell. However, dot plots usually lack detail.
3. Density plot: A density plot can represent the expression level of a marker and simultaneously indicate the density of events within a given region.
4. Contour plot: A contour plot uses contour lines to display the relative intensity of data. It cannot clearly show low-density cell populations alone and should be interpreted in combination with a dot plot.
If test results are abnormal, it is recommended to promptly identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
