BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test
About BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR, BCR-ABL1 Qualitative RT-PCR, Philadelphia Chromosome Test, t(9;22) Qualitative Test |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (EDTA tube) or bone marrow aspirate |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 4 days |
| Recommended For | Adults and children of any gender with suspected chronic myeloid leukaemia or acute lymphoblastic leukaemia |
| Price | Starting at ₹4,800 |
What is a BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test?
The BCR-ABL1 major qualitative test is a specialised molecular test that checks whether an abnormal fusion gene, called BCR-ABL1, is present in a patient's blood or bone marrow. This gene forms when parts of chromosomes 9 and 22 swap places, creating what is known as the Philadelphia chromosome. Doctors typically order this test when they suspect chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) or certain types of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). It is also referred to as the BCR-ABL qualitative PCR or the Philadelphia chromosome test.
What Does a BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test Measure?
The BCR-ABL1 major qualitative test procedure uses Real Time PCR technology to detect the presence of the abnormal BCR-ABL1 fusion gene. When positive, the specific transcript type is also reported. The test screens for three main fusion protein variants:
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| p210 (major breakpoint) | The most common form, found in nearly all CML cases |
| p190 (minor breakpoint) | A smaller fusion protein mainly linked to Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL |
| p230 (micro breakpoint) | A rare variant seen in a small number of CML cases |
The test gives a qualitative result, meaning it tells you whether the BCR-ABL1 fusion gene is present or absent, rather than measuring how much of it exists.
Why Is a BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor suspects a blood cancer driven by the Philadelphia chromosome. It provides a definitive answer on whether the BCR-ABL1 fusion gene is present in the body.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Several symptoms may prompt a doctor to recommend this test. These include:
- Persistent fatigue or unexplained tiredness
- Unintended weight loss and reduced appetite
- Fever and drenching night sweats
- An enlarged spleen causing a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
- Bone pain or discomfort
- Recurrent infections
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps identify the following conditions:
- Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), also known as chronic granulocytic leukaemia
- Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)
- Rare cases of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) associated with the BCR-ABL1 fusion
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, there are a few practical steps that will help the process go smoothly.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required for this test. You can eat and drink as normal before your appointment. No dietary restrictions apply.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind before attending your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history report, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any existing diagnosis. This is required for the test.
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking or any recent blood transfusions.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up easily.
- Stay well hydrated before the test.
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test requires either a peripheral blood sample or a bone marrow sample. The collection process for each is described below.
Peripheral Blood Collection:
- A trained phlebotomist cleans the skin over a vein in your arm.
- A needle is gently inserted to draw approximately 3 ml of blood into a lavender-topped EDTA tube.
- The needle is removed, and gentle pressure is applied to the site.
- The sample is labelled with your details and stored under refrigeration at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for transport.
- The sample is dispatched to the laboratory for Real Time PCR testing.
Bone Marrow Collection:
- A doctor performs a bone marrow aspiration, usually from the back of the hip bone, under local anaesthesia.
- Approximately 3 ml of bone marrow is collected into a green-topped sodium heparin tube.
- The sample is labelled and refrigerated immediately for safe transport.
- It is sent to the laboratory where Real Time PCR analysis is performed.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may affect the reliability of your result:
- Sample degradation if the specimen is not refrigerated or reaches the lab after 72 hours
- Haemolysis, which is the breakdown of red blood cells in the sample
- Insufficient white blood cells in the collected sample
- Improper collection tube used during sampling
- Recent blood transfusions that may dilute the sample
Understanding Your BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test Results
Results for this test are reported as either positive (detected) or negative (not detected). When positive, the specific transcript variant is also identified. The table below summarises what each result may indicate.
| Result | What It May Mean |
|---|---|
| Negative (Not Detected) | BCR-ABL1 fusion gene is absent; CML or Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL is less likely |
| Positive (Detected) with p210 | Consistent with CML in the vast majority of cases |
| Positive (Detected) with p190 | Associated with Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL |
| Positive (Detected) with p230 | Rare variant seen in some CML cases |
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.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These are general wellness tips for patients undergoing evaluation for blood conditions:
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your haematologist or oncologist after receiving your results.
- Maintain a balanced diet and stay well hydrated to support overall health during any further investigations.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor promptly, without waiting for a scheduled appointment.
Lupin Diagnostics BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test Price
The BCR-ABL1 major qualitative test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹4,800. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or hospital, as home collection is not available due to specialised sample handling requirements.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 4800 |
| CHENNAI | 4800 |
| HYDERABAD | 4800 |
| KOLKATA | 4800 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 4800 |
| PUNE | 4800 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Getting your BCR-ABL1 major qualitative test online booking is straightforward:
- 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
This test detects the presence of the BCR-ABL1 fusion gene in blood or bone marrow cells. It is used to diagnose chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). The test identifies whether the abnormal gene is present but does not measure its quantity.
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm using a standard needle. In some cases, a bone marrow aspirate may be required, which a specialist doctor collects through a procedure performed under local anaesthesia. Your doctor will advise which sample type is appropriate for you.
No fasting is needed. You can eat and drink normally before attending the centre. No dietary restrictions apply to this test.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is delivered within 4 days of sample collection. Complex cases or samples with handling issues may require additional time.
A positive result means the BCR-ABL1 fusion gene has been detected. This finding is consistent with CML or certain forms of ALL, depending on the specific transcript identified. Your doctor will discuss the significance of the result and any next steps based on your full clinical picture.
The BCR-ABL1 major qualitative test only confirms the presence or absence of the gene; it does not measure the amount of fusion transcript in the blood. For tracking treatment response or monitoring for disease recurrence, a quantitative BCR-ABL1 test is required instead.
No, home collection is not available for this test. Specialised sample handling and refrigerated transport are essential to preserve RNA integrity and ensure accurate results, so collection must take place at a Lupin Diagnostics centre.
BCR-ABL1 Major Qualitative Test
