FISH analysis for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia / small lymphocytic leukaemia
| Category | Specialist Integrated Haematological Malignancy Diagnostic Service (SIHMDS) >> Cytogenetics |
|---|---|
| Test background |
FISH involves the application of fluorescent DNA probes specific to genes or genetic regions of interest that highlight abnormalities involving these regions. |
| Clinical Indications |
In CLL/SLL, a panel of FISH probes is applied at diagnosis to identify common genetic abnormalities that are known to be strongly associated with prognosis in this disease and may assist in devising the most suitable management strategy. The CLL FISH panel includes the following probes: 13q14(DLEU)/13qter Chromosome 12 centromere In cases of uncertain diagnosis, a probe for IGH may also be applied if it is deemed appropriate. It may be appropriate to repeat the CLL FISH panel after treatment to assess response or to investigate disease progression. |
| Reference range | N/A |
| Sample & container required | 3-5mls peripheral blood in lithium heparin 2-3mls Bone marrow in lithium heparin EDTA PB and BM samples (>1ml) are acceptable for FISH only studies as appropriate. Please note the laboratory does not provide transport medium. Samples sent in transport media from an external laboratory containing Lithium heparin will be accepted if no other media available |
| Sample volume | Samples would not be rejected on the basis of small volume, however, 5 mL is ideal. |
| Turnaround time | FISH analysis in CLL/SLL is treated as routine; 95% should be reported within 21 calendar days |
| Notes | If the blood counts are abnormal (high or low white cell count) the volumes of BM/PB requested can be adjusted accordingly. Delayed samples:
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