ALL PCR Panel: Booking, Price, and Results
About ALL PCR Panel: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia PCR Panel, ALL Multiplex PCR, Leukaemia Fusion Gene Panel |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate, Venous blood sample |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 10 days |
| Recommended For | Children and adults with suspected or confirmed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia; all ages, both genders |
| Price | Starting at ₹8,000 |
What Is an ALL PCR Panel?
The ALL PCR Panel is a specialised molecular test that detects specific genetic markers associated with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), a type of blood cancer. Also called the Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia PCR Panel or ALL Multiplex PCR, this test uses Real-Time PCR technology to detect fusion genes and chromosomal changes in a bone marrow or peripheral blood sample. Doctors use this test to confirm a diagnosis, classify the leukaemia subtype, and guide treatment decisions.
What Does an ALL PCR Panel Measure?
The ALL PCR Panel test analyses several key genetic markers, each carrying distinct diagnostic and prognostic significance. The table below outlines what the panel looks for.
| Genetic Marker | What It Means |
|---|---|
| BCR-ABL1 (Philadelphia chromosome) | Arises from a specific chromosomal swap (t(9;22)); linked to poorer outcomes in B-cell precursor ALL |
| ETV6-RUNX1 (formerly TEL-AML1) | Found in roughly 22 to 25% of B-cell precursor ALL cases; generally associated with better outcomes in children |
| TCF3-PBX1 (formerly E2A-PBX1) | A genetic change specific to certain B-cell precursor ALL subtypes, used for risk classification |
| KMT2A (MLL) rearrangements | Rearrangements in the KMT2A gene; often linked to a poorer prognosis |
| IG/TCR clonal rearrangements | Markers of abnormal lymphoid cell growth; used to monitor remaining cancer cells after treatment |
Why Is an ALL PCR Panel Done?
The ALL PCR Panel is ordered when a doctor suspects or has confirmed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. It provides crucial information about the disease's genetic subtype.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Patients are often referred for this test when they present with symptoms linked to changes in blood cell production. These symptoms commonly include:
- Persistent, unexplained fatigue and weakness
- Frequent or unusual infections
- Easy or spontaneous bruising and bleeding
- Fever and night sweats without a clear cause
- Unintentional weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pallor (paleness) due to low red blood cell levels
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The ALL PCR Panel test helps identify and classify several specific conditions. These include:
- B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (accounts for around 85% of childhood cases and 75 to 80% of adult cases)
- T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (approximately 25% of adult cases)
- Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL (Ph+ ALL)
- Various genetic subtypes used for risk stratification and treatment selection
ALL PCR Panel for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test plays an important role beyond initial diagnosis. Once treatment begins, the ALL PCR Panel is used to monitor minimal residual disease (MRD), meaning the small number of cancer cells that may remain in the body after therapy. Testing is typically repeated every three months for at least two years after starting treatment, and less frequently once remission is achieved. MRD monitoring helps doctors assess how well treatment is working and supports decisions about ongoing care.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
This test requires a bone marrow or peripheral blood sample, so understanding the procedure in advance helps you feel prepared. Here is what you need to know.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before the ALL PCR Panel test. You may eat and drink normally on the day of your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
A few simple steps will help the process go smoothly. Consider the following:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are currently taking
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the sample collection area
- Stay well hydrated before your appointment
- Arrange for someone to accompany you, particularly if bone marrow aspiration is planned
Step-by-Step Procedure
Because this test requires a bone marrow sample, collection takes place at a diagnostic centre and is performed by a trained specialist. Here is what to expect.
- A haematologist or trained specialist will review your clinical history and explain the procedure.
- The skin over the bone (usually the hip bone) is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and a local anaesthetic is applied to numb the area.
- A needle is carefully inserted to draw a small bone marrow sample (approximately 3 ml) into a sodium heparin collection tube.
- Once the sample is collected, gentle pressure is applied to the site, followed by a small dressing or bandage.
- The sample is immediately labelled and stored under refrigeration (2 to 8°C) to preserve its quality.
- The sample is promptly transported to the NABL-accredited laboratory, where Real-Time PCR analysis is performed. The phlebotomist cleans the skin on the inside of your arm with an antiseptic wipe.
The procedure for obtaining a peripheral blood sample is brief and straightforward.
- A soft elastic band is tied around your upper arm to make the vein easier to locate.
- A small needle is inserted into a vein in your arm or hand to draw the blood sample.
- The blood is collected into a labelled tube.
- The elastic band is removed, and gentle pressure is applied to the puncture site.
- A small bandage is placed over the site, and your sample is dispatched to the laboratory for analysis.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Certain conditions can influence the reliability of ALL PCR Panel results. These include:
- Use of heparin anticoagulant other than the required sodium heparin tube, which can inhibit PCR reactions
- Poor sample quality or degradation of genetic material during transport
- Delays between sample collection and transport to the laboratory
- Insufficient cellularity (too few cells) in the bone marrow aspirate
- Timing of collection relative to ongoing treatment, which can affect marker detectability
Understanding Your ALL PCR Panel Results
Results from the ALL PCR Panel are qualitative, meaning each genetic marker is reported as either "Detected" or "Not Detected." Your haematologist or oncologist will interpret these findings alongside your clinical history, bone marrow studies, and cytogenetics reports.
| Parameter | Normal Finding | Significance if Detected |
|---|---|---|
| BCR-ABL1 | Not Detected | Associated with a poorer prognosis; may require targeted therapy |
| ETV6-RUNX1 | Not Detected | Generally favourable prognosis, particularly in children |
| TCF3-PBX1 | Not Detected | Prognostic significance varies; used for risk classification |
| KMT2A (MLL) rearrangements | Not Detected | Often associated with poorer prognosis |
| IG/TCR clonal rearrangements | Not Detected | Used for minimal residual disease monitoring |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain situations can affect how results are interpreted. Two specific conditions are worth noting.
- Heparin interference: Samples collected in standard heparin anticoagulant tubes are not acceptable for this test because heparin inhibits PCR and can yield unreliable results. The laboratory uses sodium heparin specifically for this reason.
- Clonal evolution during treatment: In some patients, cancer cells can undergo genetic changes over the course of therapy. This means that MRD markers used at diagnosis may become undetectable, potentially leading to a false-negative MRD result. Your doctor will account for this when reviewing serial test results.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These general wellness tips may support your overall wellbeing during and after treatment.
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your haematologist so that disease monitoring continues on schedule.
- Eat a balanced diet with adequate nutrients to support your body through treatment.
- Practise good hygiene and take steps to avoid infections, as the immune system may be affected during therapy.
Lupin Diagnostics ALL PCR Panel Price
The ALL PCR Panel test price starts at ₹8,000 at Lupin Diagnostics. As this is a specialised molecular test requiring bone marrow sample collection and advanced Real-Time PCR analysis, it must be performed at a Lupin Diagnostics centre. Home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | 8000 |
| Pune | 8000 |
| Chennai | 8000 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Booking the ALL PCR Panel test online at Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Select the ALL PCR Panel on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time to have a bone marrow sample collected by a trained specialist.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ALL PCR Panel is a molecular diagnostic test that detects specific genetic changes associated with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. It helps doctors confirm the diagnosis, identify the leukaemia subtype, assess the prognosis, and determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
This test is recommended for children and adults who show symptoms that may point to ALL, such as unexplained fatigue, frequent infections, easy bruising, or abnormal blood counts. It is also used regularly to monitor patients who are already receiving treatment for ALL.
Bone marrow is where blood cells are produced and where leukaemia cells accumulate. Sampling bone marrow directly provides the most accurate genetic information about the disease, allowing the PCR analysis to detect even small numbers of abnormal cells.
The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic before the needle is inserted, so you should not feel sharp pain during collection. Some soreness and bruising at the site may persist for a few days afterwards. Your doctor will advise you on managing any discomfort after the procedure.
Reports are typically delivered within 10 days. Molecular PCR analysis is a detailed process, and the laboratory must maintain strict quality standards throughout to ensure accurate results.
A positive result means that one or more specific genetic markers linked to ALL have been detected in your sample. Each marker carries different prognostic significance. Your haematologist will explain what the finding means for your individual situation and how it influences your treatment plan.
Yes. Once treatment begins, this test is used to monitor how well the therapy is working. Testing is typically carried out every 3 months for at least 2 years after starting treatment, then less frequently as remission is maintained. This ongoing monitoring is called minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment.
ALL PCR Panel: Booking, Price, and Results
