BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test
About BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | IGH/BCL2 Translocation Test, t(14;18) FISH Test, BCL2/IgH Rearrangement Test, Follicular Lymphoma FISH Test |
| Sample Type | FFPE Tissue Block |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 10 Days |
| Recommended For | Men and women of all ages; primarily adults suspected of B-cell lymphomas |
| Price | Starting at ₹5,500 |
What is a BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test?
The BCL2/IGH (t14;18) test is a specialised genetic test that detects a specific chromosomal change linked to certain blood cancers. It uses a technique called FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridisation) to look for a rearrangement between two genes, BCL2 and IGH, in tissue samples. Doctors typically order this test when they suspect follicular lymphoma or other B-cell lymphomas. The test is also known as the IGH/BCL2 Translocation Test or t(14;18) FISH Test.
What Does a BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test Measure?
This test analyses tissue at a genetic level to identify whether a particular chromosomal translocation is present. The following elements are examined:
| Component | What It Means |
|---|---|
| IGH/BCL2 Gene Fusion | A joining of the BCL2 gene (chromosome 18) with the IGH gene (chromosome 14), causing abnormal cell survival |
| BCL2 Gene Activity | BCL2 normally helps regulate cell death; when overactive due to translocation, cancer cells survive longer than they should |
| Presence of Abnormal Clone | The percentage of cells carrying the 14;18 translocation, which confirms the presence of a tumour-related change |
Why is a BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor suspects a B-cell lymphoma based on symptoms, imaging, or earlier test results. Here is when it is commonly requested.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to order the BCL2/IGH test:
- Painless swelling in the neck, armpit, or groin (enlarged lymph nodes)
- Unexplained fatigue that does not improve with rest
- Persistent fever without a known cause
- Night sweats and chills
- Unexplained weight loss over a short period
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can help identify several serious blood-related conditions, including:
- Follicular lymphoma, where the t(14;18) translocation is found in up to 90% of cases
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), identified in up to 30% of newly diagnosed cases
- High-grade B-cell lymphomas with multiple gene rearrangements (double or triple-hit lymphomas)
- Other B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders
BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
Once a patient is diagnosed with follicular lymphoma, this test has an important role in ongoing care. Molecular testing for the BCL2/IGH rearrangement can track how well treatment is working by measuring minimal residual disease, which means checking for tiny amounts of cancer remaining after treatment. It can also detect early signs of relapse. The frequency of monitoring depends on the treatment phase and the clinical judgement of the treating doctor.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. Below is a guide to what you should know before and during sample collection.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required for the BCL2/IGH (t14;18) test. You may eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind before your sample collection:
- Bring a detailed clinical history record, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor of any blood-thinning medications you are currently taking
- Tissue biopsy specimens must be properly fixed and handled as per laboratory instructions
- Ask your doctor in advance what type of sample will be collected so you know what to expect
Step-by-Step Procedure
The sample for this test is an FFPE (formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded) tissue block. Here is what the process typically involves:
- A qualified healthcare professional collects a tissue sample, usually through a biopsy of a lymph node or affected organ.
- The tissue is fixed in formalin and then embedded in paraffin wax to preserve it for analysis — this is the FFPE block.
- The tissue block is transported to the laboratory at ambient temperature (18 to 28 degrees Celsius).
- In the laboratory, the FISH technique is applied using probes targeting the IGH gene on chromosome 14 and the BCL2 gene on chromosome 18.
- A pathologist examines approximately 200 cells under a fluorescence microscope to identify the presence or absence of the translocation.
- The findings are compiled into a report and delivered within 10 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of your test results:
- Poor quality or inadequate tissue fixation before processing
- Too few tumour cells present in the collected sample
- Delay between sample collection and laboratory processing
- Rare BCL2 translocation variants that the FISH probe may not detect
- Low tumour burden, which can cause the translocation to go undetected
Understanding Your BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test Results
Results from this test must always be reviewed by a specialist, such as a haematologist or oncologist, alongside other clinical findings and test reports.
| Parameter | Normal Result | Abnormal Result |
|---|---|---|
| IGH/BCL2 Fusion | Negative (not detected) | Positive (fusion detected) |
A positive result means the 14;18 translocation is present, which is strongly associated with follicular lymphoma and certain other B-cell lymphomas. A negative result means the translocation was not found, though this does not completely rule out a lymphoma diagnosis, as not all cases carry this specific change.
Disclaimer: 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:
- This test detects only the IGH/BCL2 translocation. Rare BCL2 translocation variants will not be picked up by this method.
- In samples with very few cancer cells (low tumour burden), the translocation may not be detected even if it is present.
- FISH detects this translocation in approximately 96% of positive patients, making it more sensitive than PCR-based methods for this purpose.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Since this test is used in the context of lymphoma diagnosis and monitoring, the following general wellness steps are relevant:
- Attend all follow-up appointments recommended by your haematologist, especially if you have known risk factors for lymphoma.
- Report any new or returning symptoms — such as swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss — to your doctor without delay.
- Follow your specialist's guidance on monitoring schedules if you have been diagnosed with a lymphoproliferative condition.
Lupin Diagnostics BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test Price
The BCL2/IGH (t14;18) test is priced starting at ₹5,500 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 5400 |
| CHENNAI | 5400 |
| HYDERABAD | 5400 |
| KOLKATA | 5400 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 5400 |
| PUNE | 5400 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Follow these steps for a BCL2/IGH test online booking:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The BCL2/IGH (t14;18) test detects a specific chromosomal change found in most cases of follicular lymphoma and in a portion of diffuse large B-cell lymphomas. It helps doctors confirm a diagnosis and guides decisions about the right course of care. This test is ordered after an initial clinical evaluation and imaging suggests a B-cell lymphoma.
At Lupin Diagnostics, this test is performed on an FFPE (formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded) tissue block, typically obtained through a biopsy of a lymph node or affected tissue. The block is transported at ambient temperature for laboratory analysis.
The discomfort involved depends on the biopsy site and method. Most tissue biopsies are performed with local anaesthesia to minimise pain. Your doctor will explain the procedure in detail beforehand and ensure appropriate measures are taken for your comfort.
No. The test requires a tissue biopsy, which must be performed by a qualified healthcare professional at a diagnostic centre or hospital. This is why the BCL2/IGH (t14;18) test home collection is not available for this test.
A positive result indicates that the IGH/BCL2 fusion gene is present in the tissue sample. This strongly suggests follicular lymphoma or another B-cell lymphoma. Your doctor will interpret this result alongside other findings before arriving at a diagnosis.
Not all B-cell lymphomas carry the t(14;18) translocation. Around 10 to 20% of follicular lymphomas do not have this specific change. A negative result means the translocation was not detected, but it does not rule out a lymphoma diagnosis. Further testing may be recommended.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is delivered within 10 days. The test is processed in an NABL-accredited laboratory, and results are shared digitally via email or WhatsApp once ready.
BCL2/IGH (t14;18) Test
