BCL6 Test
About BCL6 Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | BCL-6, B-Cell Lymphoma 6, BCL6 IHC, BCL6 Immunostain, BCL6 Gene Rearrangement |
| Sample Type | Peripheral Blood or Formalin-fixed Paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block prepared from biopsy tissue (lymph node, bone marrow, or other affected tissue) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 8 days; turnaround time may extend in FISH-based gene rearrangement testing |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; primarily ordered for patients with suspected lymphoma |
| Price | Starting at ₹6,000 |
What is a BCL6 Test?
The BCL6 test detects the BCL-6 protein, a molecule that controls gene activity in certain immune cells. It is used to classify types of lymphoma, a cancer that affects the lymphatic system.
The test is ordered by hematologists and oncologists when lymphoma or related lymphoid abnormalities are suspected. It is also known as the BCL6 IHC test, BCL-6 Immunostain test, or BCL6 Gene Rearrangement test.
What Does a BCL6 Test Measure?
The BCL6 test examines peripheral blood or tissue samples for specific protein expression and, in some cases, gene changes. The table below outlines the key components analysed.
| Component | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| BCL-6 protein (IHC) | Shows whether BCL-6, a protein normally found in germinal centre B cells (the immune cells that mature inside lymph nodes), is expressed in tumour cells |
| BCL6 gene expression | Indicates whether the BCL6 gene, which codes for a 706 amino-acid protein, shows altered activity linked to non-Hodgkin lymphoma |
| BCL6 gene rearrangement (FISH) | Detects chromosomal changes in the BCL6 gene region that may indicate lymphoma involvement |
| Germinal centre marker | Identifies whether the lymphoma originates from germinal centre B cells, which is important for subtype classification |
Why is a BCL6 Test Done?
A BCL6 test is a specialised oncology test ordered when a doctor suspects lymphoma or needs to determine its exact subtype. Below are the key reasons a doctor may request it.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
- Swollen lymph nodes that do not resolve on their own
- Persistent fatigue without a clear cause
- Drenching night sweats
- Unexplained weight loss
- Unexplained or recurring fever
- Persistent itching without any visible rash
- Frequent infections suggesting immune system changes
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
- Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), where BCL6 stains a specific subset of cases
- Follicular lymphoma, as BCL-6 is expressed in germinal centre B cells
- Burkitt lymphoma, which also shows BCL6 staining
- Nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma, involving chromosomal changes linked to BCL6
- Subtype classification of DLBCL using the Hans algorithm, which combines BCL6 with CD10 and MUM-1 markers
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Because the BCL6 test may be performed on either peripheral blood or an FFPE tissue block, preparation is generally straightforward. The sample type used depends on the clinical indication and the doctor’s recommendation.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. Food intake does not affect the results, whether the sample type is peripheral blood or FFPE tissue block.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- Bring your original histopathology report, clinical details, and any relevant radiology reports, as these are required for the test
- Ensure the paraffin block of your tissue sample is available for testing if it has already been collected
- Inform your doctor of all current medications, especially immunosuppressants
- Follow any specific biopsy site care instructions given by your doctor
Step-by-Step Procedure
- The appropriate sample type is selected based on the clinical requirement — peripheral blood or FFPE tissue block.
- For peripheral blood testing, a trained phlebotomist collects the sample in a Sodium Heparin tube.
- For tissue-based testing, a surgeon or interventional radiologist performs a tissue biopsy under local or general anesthesia, depending on the site.
- The collected tissue is fixed in formalin and embedded in a paraffin block to preserve it for analysis.
- The FFPE tissue block or blood sample is labelled and transported to the laboratory under recommended conditions.
- In the laboratory, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation (FISH) is performed to detect BCL6 gene rearrangements or chromosomal abnormalities associated with lymphoma.
- A qualified pathologist or molecular specialist reviews and interprets the findings before the final report is issued.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Age of the paraffin section (best practice is for sections to be cut within six weeks)
- Environmental factors affecting the charge of glass slides, which may alter staining
- Quality of tissue fixation in formalin during sample preparation
- Sample handling and transport conditions before the tissue reaches the laboratory
Understanding Your BCL6 Test Results
Results from a BCL6 test must always be reviewed by a qualified pathologist and interpreted by your treating doctor. The table below provides a general reference guide.
| Parameter | Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| BCL6 IHC | Negative (limited to normal germinal centre cells) | No abnormal expression; within expected limits for normal lymphoid tissue |
| BCL6 IHC | Positive (nuclear staining in tumour cells) | May indicate germinal centre-derived lymphoma |
| BCL6 Gene Rearrangement (FISH) | Negative (no rearrangement detected) | Normal result |
| BCL6 Gene Rearrangement (FISH) | Positive (rearrangement detected) | Suggests possible lymphoma involvement |
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.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While BCL6 results are not modified through lifestyle in the way that cholesterol or blood sugar can be, these general steps support immune health:
- Attend regular health check-ups and report any unexplained symptoms, such as persistent swollen lymph nodes promptly
- Follow a balanced diet and stay physically active to support overall immune function
- Consult a hematologist or oncologist without delay if you develop any symptoms associated with lymphoma
Lupin Diagnostics BCL6 Test Price
The BCL6 test cost starts at approximately ₹6,000. Depending on the clinical requirement, the test may use peripheral blood or an FFPE tissue block sample. Peripheral blood collection may be available through a trained phlebotomist, while FFPE tissue blocks must be collected and submitted through an appropriate clinical facility.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 6000 |
| CHENNAI | 6000 |
| HYDERABAD | 6000 |
| KOLKATA | 6000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 6000 |
| PUNE | 6000 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website
- Choose your city and preferred centre location
- Consult your doctor regarding the appropriate sample type and arrange for sample collection or FFPE tissue block submission as advised
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time
Frequently Asked Questions
The BCL6 test detects the BCL-6 protein in tissue samples and is used to classify lymphoma subtypes. It helps doctors determine whether a lymphoma originates from germinal centre B cells and guides treatment decisions. It is not a routine screening test.
Depending on the clinical requirement, the BCL6 test may be performed using peripheral blood or an FFPE tissue block sample. Peripheral blood is collected in a Sodium Heparin tube, while FFPE tissue blocks are submitted in an appropriate storage box. The laboratory uses Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation (FISH) to detect BCL6 gene rearrangements and chromosomal abnormalities associated with lymphoma.
The laboratory analysis itself is not painful, as it is performed on tissue that has already been collected. The biopsy procedure to obtain the tissue may involve some discomfort, which is managed using local or general anesthesia before the procedure begins.
For IHC-based BCL6 testing, results are typically available within 8 days. If FISH-based gene rearrangement testing is also requested, the turnaround time may extend.
A positive result indicates that BCL-6 protein or gene rearrangement is present in the tissue sample. In DLBCL, BCL6 expression is associated with germinal centre origin and has been linked to a more favourable outcome with standard treatment. Your oncologist will explain what a positive result means for your specific case.
This test is ordered by hematologists or oncologists for patients with confirmed or suspected lymphoma. It is used to classify the lymphoma subtype and help determine prognosis. It is not recommended as a general health screening test.
Bring your original histopathology or biopsy report, any previous radiology images or reports, and a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms and current medications. The paraffin block of your tissue sample may also be required, so confirm this with your doctor before your appointment.
BCL6 Test
