Use of test
Purpose:
Trisomy of Chromosome 12 is the most common cytogenetic abnormality in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), and can be found in other mature B-cell neoplasms. This cytogenetic abnormality has prognostic implications.
Utility:
The presence of trisomy 12 as a single abnormality is associated with a low risk of progression in CLL.
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 specific to Chromosome 12.
Requesting the test
Ordering:
This test is usually requested by a haematologist or oncologist. In cases of CLL, it is usually requested as part of the CLL FISH panel.
Sample required:
0.5 mL bone marrow in transport media, or 5-10 mL blood in lithium heparin.
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.