Call for Abstracts for
Symposium and Workshop

Symposium and Workshop speakers were originally appointed; however, a limited number of positions will be open for application.  Please use these format (abstract template and CV format), and send it to info@ifbls2026.jp 

  • ※Please note that these positions are not by invitation, therefore, conference registration is required！
  • * For the cytology workshop, submission of an abstract is not required. Please submit the file “Template of Cytology Case Conferences workshop.pptx”.

Important Dates

Abstract Submission Deadline May 31, 2026
Notification of Acceptance Abstracts received between April 20 and May 20: End of May
Abstracts received after May 20: Early June
Presenting Author Registration End of July, 2026

Presentation Type

Symposium 90min, 15 or 20min × 4 or 5 speakers
Workshop 60min, 10 or 15min × 4 or 5 speakers

Please select the relevant category and include it in your CV.
Presentation Schedule is available here.
Program at a glance

Symposium

Category Theme Overview
Hematology The advancement of hematological analysis utilizing new technology (AI and big data, etc.) Currently, it is becoming possible to classify cells and diagnose leukemia using new technology (AI and big data, etc.). Through this symposium, we aim to discuss future developments in this field.
Chemistry Global Landscape of Clinical Chemistry: Current Status and Future Perspectives We aim to hold a symposium where participants consider the global outlook for clinical chemistry—both its current state and future prospects—from the two broad themes below, taking into account their own national contexts.
  1. Global Perspectives on External Quality Assessment in Clinical Chemistry
  2. Ensuring Quality and Access to Basic Clinical Chemistry in Resource-Limited Settings
Immunology The Future of Immuno-Serological Testing: Addressing Unexpected Pitfalls and Exploring New Horizons Immuno-serological testing plays an increasingly vital role in a wide range of clinical applications, including tumour markers, hormonal assays, and infectious disease diagnostics. However, due to its reliance on antigen-antibody reactions, it is occasionally associated with unexpected results—commonly referred to as "pitfalls." This session will explore practical strategies and lessons learned in managing such challenges. Furthermore, we will discuss emerging prospects for enhancing diagnostic accuracy through the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI).
Cytology Cytology Beyond Generations: What Today’s Experts Want to Share with Tomorrow’s Cytotechnologists This symposium bridges generations of cytology professionals by revisiting essential skills while exploring the innovations shaping the future of cytological practice. Seasoned experts will share their insights, emphasizing the enduring importance of microscopic observation, diagnostic reasoning, and the mindset needed in an era of automation and AI.
Pathology Next-Generation Histopathology: Bridging Fundamental Processing and Advanced Technologies This symposium explores the enduring importance of histopathological techniques and knowledge that have been cultivated over decades, while examining how the integration of novel technologies enhances diagnostic accuracy and clinical value for the future. By bridging tradition and innovation, we aim to propose a new vision of pathology for the next generation of BLS.
Transfusion medicine Clinical support in the field of blood transfusion across various countries This presentation introduces the types of clinical support provided in the field of transfusion medicine in various countries.
Genetics and Genomics Current Status of Genome Testing with NGS in Japan and Worldwide. This symposium will introduce the current status of genomic testing using NGS in Japan and other countries.
Microbiology Advanced Technologies Revolutionizing Microbiological Testing Recent years have witnessed remarkable advancements in clinical microbiological testing, particularly through the adoption of next-generation sequencing (NGS), mass spectrometry, and rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing (RAST). These technologies are transforming traditional diagnostic workflows by enabling faster, more accurate identification of pathogens and resistance profiles, often directly from clinical samples. This symposium will explore the current applications, limitations, and future directions of these cutting-edge approaches. Leading experts will present the latest developments in their respective fields, discussing how these innovations are being integrated into clinical practice and how they contribute to improved patient management and antimicrobial stewardship. Through this session, we aim to highlight the evolving role of clinical microbiology laboratories in the era of precision diagnostics and global AMR control.
  • 1) "Next-Generation Sequencing: Transforming Infectious Disease Diagnostics Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is rapidly changing the landscape of microbial diagnostics. This talk will highlight recent developments in metagenomic NGS for pathogen detection directly from clinical specimens, with real-world clinical applications.
  • 2) Mass Spectrometry in Microbiological Testing: Current Applications and Future Directions Mass spectrometry, particularly MALDI-TOF MS, has transformed microbial identification in clinical microbiology laboratories. This presentation will cover current uses of mass spectrometry in rapid identification, including recent advancements in antimicrobial resistance prediction and strain typing. Future developments such as integration with machine learning and its role in precision diagnostics will also be explored.
  • 3) Rapid Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing: Transforming Clinical Microbiological Practice Rapid antimicrobial susceptibility testing (RAST) technologies are increasingly essential for timely and effective treatment of infections. This session will review emerging methods—such as EUCAST RAST, microfluidic-based platforms, and molecular resistance assays—and their clinical impact. Implementation strategies, limitations, and the future role of RAST in antimicrobial stewardship will also be addressed.
Education Career development for BLS BLS has a variety of career paths other than working in hospitals. It will be useful for the audience to know how BLSs in each country are introduced to their post-graduation career paths.
Parasitology Global Trends in Parasitic Disease Detection and Innovations in Diagnostic Methods This workshop aims to understand practical approaches to parasite detection in different countries and to share insights into the utility and challenges of innovative technologies. Discussions will cover the challenges in standardization and education.
Others (Physiology) Physiological Diagnostics in the Digital Age: new technology (AI and big data, etc.) into Functional Testing Advances in digital technology are reshaping functional testing. This session highlights the new technology (AI and big data, etc.) into physiological diagnostics to improve accuracy, efficiency, and patient care.

Workshop

Category Theme Overview
Hematology The current status and challenges of body cavity fluid analysis In body cavity fluid analysis, cell classification methods include automated hematology analyzers, morphological classification using May-Giemsa staining, Sampson staining, Turk's fluid staining, and Papanicolaou staining. However, the technicians responsible for cell classification often work across various departments such as general, hematology, and pathology, resulting in a lack of standardized procedures. Currently, specimen preparation, cell classification, and reporting methods vary between facilities and laboratories. We aim to address these issues and establish standardized protocols.
Immunology From Field Experience to Innovation For example: Point-of-care testing (POCT), particularly immunochromatographic methods, has played a pivotal role as a rapid diagnostic tool during natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and torrential rains, as well as during the COVID-19 pandemic. With ongoing global climate change, the occurrence of unexpected natural disasters has been increasing. This trend indicates that even countries and regions with no prior experience of such disasters are now facing a rising likelihood of future disasters. Therefore, it is expected that the use of this technology will increase in the future as a means of speeding up and assisting in disaster diagnosis. This session will discuss the current status, challenges, future perspectives, and technological innovations of point-of-care testing (POCT) across multiple fields, including infectious diseases and blood transfusion.
Cytology Global Cytology Case Conference: Sharing Diagnostic Perspectives Across Borders This workshop brings together cytotechnologists from around the world to discuss real clinical cytology cases through a shared diagnostic lens. By comparing interpretations and approaches across countries, we aim to deepen global understanding of cytological criteria, reporting practices, and diagnostic challenges.
Pathology Global Perspectives in Histopathology: Evolving Roles, Standards, and Expectations for BLS Professionals This workshop explores how histopathology practices, responsibilities, and educational requirements for BLS differ across countries. Through comparative discussion, we aim to understand emerging global trends such as AI integration, quality assurance, occupational safety, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Transfusion medicine Quality control required for blood transfusion testing Discuss the minimum requirements for accuracy control in transfusion testing.
Genetics and Genomics Quality Assurance in Genetic Testing Using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) Genetic panel testing using next-generation sequencers (NGS) is widely utilized across various medical fields. The results obtained from these tests play a crucial role in definitive diagnosis and in determining treatment strategies. In particular, cancer gene panel testing involves multiple steps, including preparation of pathological specimens, nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, sequencing, sequence alignment, variant detection, and analysis of associations with diseases. Quality assurance is essential at each stage of this process.
This workshop will focus on quality assurance in genetic testing using next-generation sequencing technologies.
Microbiology Resistance: Current Status and Strategic Responses Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) continues to pose a serious global threat to public health, and effective surveillance is essential for its containment. This presentation provides an overview of the current AMR landscape in [Country/Region], including recent trends in resistant pathogens and the clinical and public health implications. It will also highlight the structure and implementation of national AMR surveillance systems, data reporting mechanisms, and the integration of laboratory-based and community-level data. Key challenges such as diagnostic gaps, data standardization, and the need for cross-sectoral collaboration (human, animal, and environmental health) will be discussed. Finally, the talk will explore ongoing national strategies to combat AMR, including antimicrobial stewardship initiatives, policy development, and opportunities for international cooperation.
Education Continuing education to maintain professionalism for BLS Introduce several countries’ continuing education to maintain the professionalism in BLS, and to use it as a reference for your country.
Urinalysis Urinalysis Case Conference In recent years, reports have emerged on the clinical utility of newly identified urinary sediment findings, such as adenovirus-infected cells and drug crystals. This session will be aimed to explore, through clinical case, how urinalysis—not limited to sediment examination—contributes to the early detection, accurate diagnosis, clinical decision-making for renal and urological diseases, and to promote international knowledge sharing.
Others (Management) Fostering a Culture of Safety in Healthcare: Effective Communication, Standardized Checklists, and Ongoing Quality Improvement. Creating a culture of safety requires more than protocols—it demands teamwork, clear communication, and continuous learning. This session provides hands-on strategies for implementing safe practices in daily clinical workflows.