IGH/MALT1 FISH
Also known as: MALT FISH, t(14;18) FISH
Test category:
Oncology - Lymphoma
Use of test
Purpose:
Gene fusions involving the IGH gene at 14q32 and MALT1 at 18q21 are frequent in several types of lymphoma. Such gene fusions have diagnostic and prognostic implications.
Utility:
The presence of an IGH-MALT1 gene fusion supports a diagnosis of MALT lymphoma. The absence of such a fusion does not preclude this diagnosis, as only around 15% of MALT lymphomas are positive for MALT1 rearrangement.
Ethical considerations:
This is an assay for non-heritable mutations. It does not raise issues of ethics or consent that are different from most other investigations ordered in the routine care of a patient.
Methodology:
Fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) analysis, using probes to identify fusion of IGH with MALT1, due to a t(14;18)(q32;q21) translocation.
Requesting the test
Ordering:
This test is usually requested by a haematologist or oncologist.
Sample required:
0.5 mL bone marrow in transport media or 10 mL blood in lithium heparin if clinically appropriate.
To help ensure the quality of the test, a genetic test should be done with a dedicated sample whenever possible i.e. a sample collected specifically for that test rather than a sample that is used for multiple tests.
We recommend that the patient or another adult check the labelling of request forms and sample tubes.
Turnaround time:
2 business days.
Price:
Up to $255.
If more information is required, the requesting clinician can call our laboratory on (07) 3377 8573.
Rebate:
This test is not rebated by Medicare. The laboratory assumes that the patient or client has provided informed financial consent for the test.