Professional
Technical
IVT
cytogenetics
Pronunciation: sy-toe-jen-ET-iks
The study of chromosomes and chromosomal abnormalities, essential for hematologic malignancy classification and prognosis.
Full Definition
Cytogenetics is the branch of genetics that studies the structure and function of chromosomes, particularly chromosomal abnormalities that contribute to the development and progression of hematologic cancers. In hematologic oncology, cytogenetic analysis is crucial for diagnosis, risk stratification, and treatment planning. Common cytogenetic abnormalities include translocations, deletions, and inversions that are specific to different types of blood cancers.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with cytology (study of individual cells) or cytochemistry (chemical analysis of cells).
In Context
- "Cytogenetics revealed a Philadelphia chromosome in this chronic myeloid leukemia case." — Laboratory report
- "The cytogenetics laboratory processed bone marrow samples for karyotype analysis." — Pathology procedure note
Also known as
chromosomal analysis
karyotyping
Don't confuse with
cytology
cytochemistry