Use of test
Purpose:
Trisomy of Chromosome 8 is a frequent, non-specific finding in several myeloid neoplasms, including acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). This cytogenetic abnormality has prognostic implications.
Utility:
In patients with MDS, trisomy 8 is associated with an intermediate prognosis. In patients with AML, trisomy 8 can be associated with intermediate or poor prognosis, depending on other cytogenetic abnormalities.
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 specific regions of Chromosome 8.
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 blasts>10%).
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.