What does it mean when refund status bar is gone and it says topic 152 ?

Nothing concerning.  Topic 152 is a general number the IRS uses to refer to refund information.

If you need to track your refund, visit the IRS Where's My Refund? site.

My status shows the same thing. Instead of moving to "approved" the bars went away and it only says status 152 a refund date will be provided.

I've heard mixed opinions this could mean further review and others saying you're fine. 

I would like an expert to chime in on what COULD happen as I really need my refund (as most do).

Tax Topic 152 simply means that your e-filed return is being processed and that the government hasn't approved or rejected it yet. Sometimes return status does not update for several days or even longer. The IRS issues more than 9 out of 10 refunds in the normal time frame: less than 21 days. However, it’s possible that some tax returns may require further review and could take longer. Please click Topic No. 152 Refund Information to learn more.