Flow cytometry involves counting biological components using laser-emitting computerized machines. Training in flow cytometry is becoming standard for laboratory technicians, involving operating and calibrating cytometers, staining biological materials, and learning the three main techniques used by hematology analyzers. Completion of a certificate, associate degree, or technologist degree confirms training in flow cytometry, with higher degrees providing greater exposure to the field. The final demonstration of training involves passing an international certification exam to become a Certified Cytometrist.
Flow cytometry is a process whereby biological components, such as cells, antibodies or chromosomes, are stirred in a liquid that is channeled through a narrow point to allow counting by computerized machines that emit a laser. The amount of absorbed or reflected laser light is then measured to provide a laboratory test value. Clinical laboratory technicians and technologists undergo training in flow cytometry as part of their educational preparation for working in their respective fields. Once considered an advanced skill, training in flow cytometry is now becoming standard training for clinical and research laboratory technicians and technicians. Training in flow cytometry involves operating and calibrating cytometers, staining biological materials with the appropriate fluorescent dyes, and modifying them as necessary.
Laboratory flow cytometry training involves learning the three main techniques that hematology analyzers – machines that count cells and cell types – use to provide clinical laboratory results. The first type counts blood cells by what is known as the electrical impedance method, in which certain cells interrupt an electrical signal as they pass through the “funnel”. A second means of counting blood cells, the light scattering method measures the amount of laser light reflected from the flowing fluid and cells exiting the funnel. Finally, some tests are completed by treating the biological mixture of cells and fluids with specific fluorescent dyes that are taken up by only some cells and have no influence on others. Specific cells can be counted by reflection in the laser light.
In the US, completion of a certificate, associate degree, or technologist degree confirms at least a minimum amount of training in flow cytometry. The higher the degree obtained, the greater the student’s exposure to practice and principles in the field. In addition to classes on laboratory safety principles, most educated laboratory technologists are also instructed in a great deal of anatomy and physiology, with special emphasis on the study of blood or hematology. The topics of experimental design and quality control are also typically covered in classroom instruction with laboratory practice. Training in flow cytometry also requires instruction in the theoretical principles behind the science.
The final demonstration of flow cytometry training involves successful completion of an international certification exam – the International Cytometry Certification Examination – offered by the International Society for the Advancement of Cytometry (ISAC) and the International Clinical Cytometry Society (ICCS ). Successful completion of this exam results in the title of Certified Cytometrist.
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