The ImageStream technology was developed as a novel tool for multiparameter cell ana- lysis. The system fully integrates the features of flow cytometry and fluorescent microscopy com- bined with a modern system of image analysis. Similarly to flow cytometry, the ImageStream allows analyzing of a large number of cells according to their fluorescent features and provides statistical analysis of these objects.

Introducing of the new methods of treatment of MM patients is connected with necessity of searching for more sophisticated methods of MRD evaluation and earlier diagnosis and treatment of relapse. The most often used methods are the fenotyping with flow cytometry and different types of qualitative and quantitative PCR. The merits and drawbacks of different method MRD evaluation are described.

Cytokines are proteins regulating the development and duration of normal and pathological immune response. They are responsible for the transduction of informations among immune system cells and are involved in the communication between the immune and neuroendocrine systems. Cytokines play roles in the immune response, hematopoiesis, apoptosis, inflammation and homeostasis. Distinct lymphocyte populations are characterized by the spectrum of synthesized cytokines and their production may be altered in diseases.