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Laboratory for Pediatric Oncology

The Laboratory for Pediatric Oncology (LKO) at the Princess Máxima Center provides integrated diagnostics in the fields of Pathology, including solid tumors, brain tumors, and lymphomas, and Hemato-Oncology, including leukemia, lymphomas, and bone marrow failure. A clearly defined clinical question is essential to reach a focused and accurate conclusion.

The laboratory contributes to the development, standardization, and implementation of international treatment protocols. It is also closely involved in translational research: translating scientific insights into applicable diagnostic innovations in the care of children with cancer.

Frequently asked questions

The laboratory consists of the following teams:

  • Pre-analytics

  • Biobank/Studies

  • Morphology

  • Flow Cytometry

  • Pathology

  • Molecular Diagnostics

  • Bioinformatics

  • Hemato-oncological diagnostics

    In the case of abnormalities in peripheral blood (PB) or bone marrow (BM), we perform additional diagnostic
    Learn more

  • Pathology

    The Pathology team is the primary point of contact for the diagnostics of all biopsies and resections.
    Learn more

Molecular Diagnostics

The Molecular Diagnostics team, responsible staff member Marco Koudijs, and the Bioinformatics team, responsible staff member Jayne Hehir-Kwa, perform whole exome sequencing (WES) and/or RNA sequencing to identify genetic characteristics and provide therapy recommendations. By performing a Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) test, the response to therapy can be monitored. For the intraoperative classification of brain tumors, the LKO uses a Nanopore sequencing–based classifier, see PMID: 37821699.

See below for descriptions of tests and gene panels:

Test description RNA sequencing
Test description WES
Test description CNS Tumor Classification
Test description Minimal Residual Disease (MRD)
Test description: Whole Genome Sequencing

Scientific research

The LKO facilitates scientific research by optimally processing and storing patient material in the biobank. In addition, laboratory staff are directly involved in various research projects. The aim is not only to stimulate scientific research, but also to apply new diagnostic techniques in daily practice as quickly as possible.

Quality assurance

Since February 2022, the Laboratory for Pediatric Oncology has been accredited by the Dutch Accreditation Council. This means that the laboratory has demonstrated compliance with the international quality standards of ISO 15189. For the scope of accreditation, see M325 – Dutch Accreditation Council.

The majority of our testing methods are performed in accordance with the conditions of accreditation and ISO 15189. See also the statement of competence and the list of diagnostic tests.