BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | BCR-ABL1 p190 qualitative test, BCR-ABL minor breakpoint test, e1a2 transcript detection, Philadelphia chromosome qualitative screening |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (EDTA tube) or bone marrow aspirate |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 4 days |
| Recommended For | Adults and children with suspected Philadelphia chromosome-positive leukaemia (Ph+ ALL or rare CML cases) |
| Price | Starting at ₹4,800 |
What is a BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test?
The BCR-ABL1 minor qualitative test checks a blood or bone marrow sample for the presence of the p190 fusion transcript, which forms due to an abnormal chromosomal change called the Philadelphia chromosome (t(9;22)). The result is reported as either detected or not detected. This test is also known as the BCR-ABL1 p190 qualitative test or minor breakpoint test. Doctors order it when they suspect Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Ph+ ALL) or, in rare cases, chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) with an atypical transcript type.
What Does a BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test Measure?
This test uses real-time PCR technology to look for a specific abnormal gene fusion at the RNA level. It identifies whether the BCR-ABL1 p190 fusion transcript is present in the sample and reports the specific transcript type if detected.
The table below summarises the test analyses.
| Component | What It Checks |
|---|---|
| BCR-ABL1 p190 (minor breakpoint) fusion transcript | Presence or absence of the e1a2 fusion mRNA caused by the Philadelphia chromosome |
| Transcript type identification | If detected, the specific fusion type (e.g., p190/e1a2) is reported |
The test does not measure the quantity or level of the transcript. For measurement, a separate quantitative BCR-ABL1 test is needed.
Why is a BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor needs to confirm or rule out the presence of a Philadelphia chromosome-related fusion gene during the initial diagnosis of leukaemia. Below are the key reasons it may be requested.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may recommend a BCR-ABL1 minor qualitative test when a patient presents with the following symptoms.
- Persistent or unexplained fatigue and weakness
- Frequent infections or a generally weakened immune response
- Fever or night sweats without an obvious cause
- Unexplained weight loss over a short period
- Shortness of breath on mild exertion
- Bone or joint pain or tenderness
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps identify specific leukaemia subtypes associated with the Philadelphia chromosome. The following conditions may be indicated by a positive result.
- Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (Ph+ ALL), where the p190 transcript is found in approximately 75% of childhood ALL cases and around 50% of adult ALL cases
- Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) with the atypical p190 transcript, seen in 1 to 2% of CML patients
- Rare cases of acute myeloid leukaemia or T-cell lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma associated with the t(9;22) abnormality
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, correct sample collection and timely handling are critical for an accurate result.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before this test. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before your sample is collected.
- Bring a detailed clinical history report, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor or the collection staff about all medications you are currently taking
- Wear clothing that allows easy access to the inner arm for a blood draw
- Ensure the sample reaches the laboratory within 48 hours of collection, as RNA in the sample degrades quickly with delay
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test may use either a peripheral blood sample or a bone marrow sample, depending on your doctor's instructions. Both procedures are described below.
Blood Sample Collection
- A trained phlebotomist will clean the skin on your inner arm and insert a small needle into a vein.
- A small amount of blood (3 ml) is drawn into a lavender-top EDTA tube.
- You may feel a mild sting when the needle is inserted. The draw usually takes under 5 minutes.
- The tube is labelled and stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for transport to the laboratory.
Bone Marrow Sample Collection
- You will be asked to lie down, and the area at the back of the hip bone is cleaned and numbed with a local anaesthetic injection.
- A needle is carefully inserted to collect a small bone marrow aspirate (3 ml) into a sodium heparin (green-top) tube.
- The procedure may cause brief pressure or discomfort. Your doctor will guide you through each step.
- The sample is labelled, refrigerated, and dispatched promptly to the laboratory.
At the laboratory, total RNA is extracted from the sample, converted to cDNA, and analysed using real-time PCR to detect any BCR-ABL1 fusion transcripts.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may affect the reliability of your test result.
- Delay in transporting the sample to the laboratory (RNA breaks down quickly after collection)
- Clotted blood samples, which are not acceptable for this test
- Improper storage temperature during transport
- Freezing the sample instead of refrigerating it, which damages RNA quality
- Poor sample mixing after collection
Understanding Your BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test Results
Results from this test are reported as either positive (detected) or negative (not detected). Because this is a qualitative test, it confirms presence or absence only. A doctor needs to review your results alongside your symptoms, blood counts, and other investigations.
| Parameter | Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| BCR-ABL1 p190 transcript | Not detected/Negative | No evidence of the p190 Philadelphia chromosome fusion gene in the sample |
| BCR-ABL1 p190 transcript | Detected/Positive | Presence of the minor breakpoint fusion; most commonly associated with Ph+ ALL or rare p190-positive CML |
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
While this test identifies a specific genetic abnormality, general well-being is always important. The following tips support overall health.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to support immune function.
- Manage stress through regular sleep and light physical activity, as chronic stress can affect overall health.
- Attend all follow-up appointments promptly, particularly if your result is positive, to allow timely medical evaluation.
Lupin Diagnostics BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test Price
The BCR-ABL1 minor qualitative test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹4,800. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available due to the specialised handling requirements of the sample.
| 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 minor 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
The p210 (major breakpoint) transcript is the hallmark fusion in most CML patients. The p190 (minor breakpoint) transcript is shorter and is most commonly found in Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL. The minor qualitative test specifically screens for the p190 transcript, though some panels also screen for p210 and p230.
The BCR-ABL1 minor qualitative test is used at the initial stage of diagnosis to confirm whether the fusion gene is present at all. Once a transcript is identified, a quantitative test is ordered to measure levels and monitor treatment response over time.
No. This test is for initial diagnosis only and should not be used to monitor treatment. Quantitative BCR-ABL1 testing is significantly more sensitive for measuring changes in fusion transcript levels during therapy.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is typically delivered within 4 days. Result times may vary slightly depending on sample quality and laboratory scheduling.
No fasting is required. The most important preparation step is to bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms and any previous test results, as this is required by the laboratory for accurate interpretation.
A positive result means the BCR-ABL1 p190 fusion transcript was detected in your sample. This is most commonly associated with Ph+ ALL. Your doctor will assess the result alongside other tests and discuss the next steps with you.
The sample for this test contains RNA, which is very unstable and degrades rapidly. The sample must reach a laboratory within 48 hours under refrigerated conditions. This requires controlled handling that is not possible with standard home collection. This is why BCR-ABL1 minor qualitative test home collection is not available, and the sample must be collected at a centre equipped for specialist sample management.
BCR-ABL1 Minor Qualitative Test: Booking, Price, and Results
