About Cell Therapy and Flow Cytometry
Cell Therapy and Flow Cytometry provides diagnostic services to clinicians within RCH, RWH and the B.M.D.I Cord Blood Bank. The laboratory also provides haemopoietic stem cell (HSC) manipulation and processing services for RCH.
Services
Our services can be divided into 4 major categories:
-
Diagnostic Flow Cytometry - including the analysis of samples to assist in the diagnosis of leukaemia & lymphoma; enumeration of haemopoietic 'stem cells' in a stem cell product (ie CD34 assay), enumeration of foetal cells in the maternal circulation and the detection of DNA aneuploidy.
-
Stem Cell Processing - laboratory processing of stem cell products so they are suitable for HSC transplantation. Processing may include red cell depletion, plasma depletion and / or cryopreservation.
-
Molecular Evidence of Engraftment - using molecular biology to look for microsatellite regions (VNTR), we are often able to detect evidence of donor engraftment.
-
Family Cord Blood Collection Service - is provided on behalf of the Children's Cancer Centre for families of patients who are likely to require a haemopoietic stem cell transplant as part of their therapy. Families wishing to participate in the program are referred by the patient's treating clinician and their suitability reviewed by a Transfusion Specialist. The Cord Blood collection is organised via this laboratory, with the assistance of the mother's obstetrician. Compatible cord blood is stored until required.
Appointments with the Transfusion Specialist for Family Cord Blood Collection Service can be made via (03) 9345 5914. These appointments need to be made at 28-30 weeks of pregnancy, and a doctor's referral is required for this consultation Staff
Hours of Operation
Business Hours : Monday-Friday 8:00am - 19:30pm
After Hours: An on-call service is provided from 19:30pm Friday - 8:00am Monday and on Public Holidays
Scientist can be contacted on pager 5832 or alternatively thru switchboard.
Staff
Scientist-in-Charge
