Applications of in situ hybridization in the study of hematologic malignancies

In situ hybridization is a molecular technique that can be useful in the study of hematologic malignancies. Thus far, the most extensive uses have been in the detection of viral sequences and in the detection of chromosomal alterations. Other applications such as the identification of various cellular gene products are more limited, but with improvements in the sensitivity and reliability of methods for ISH, their use will become more widespread. Information provided by ISH contributes to our understanding of the pathophysiology and etiology of hematologic malignancies. In the future, ISH may be used routinely in the evaluation of leukemias and lymphomas.