C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test
About C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | CD117, c-Kit, KIT Receptor, Stem Cell Factor Receptor (SCFR), Mast/Stem Cell Growth Factor Receptor |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (EDTA tube) and bone marrow aspirate (sodium heparin tube) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 10 days |
| Recommended For | Adults and children of both genders when blood cancers or mast cell disorders are suspected |
| Price | Starting at ₹6,000 |
What is a C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test?
The C-Kit, Blood/Bone marrow test measures the expression of a protein called CD117, also known as c-Kit or Stem Cell Factor Receptor. This protein plays a key role in how certain cells grow, survive, and develop. Doctors order this test when they suspect blood cancers, mast cell disorders, or certain tumours. It uses two sample types: a peripheral blood sample and a bone marrow aspirate.
What Does a C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test Measure?
The test analyses several cell-level features using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Here is what each component tells us.
| Parameter | What It Indicates |
|---|---|
| CD117 (c-Kit) protein expression | Shows whether cells are overproducing this receptor, which may point to cancer or a related disorder |
| Blast cell identification | Identifies immature blood cells (blasts) and determines whether they are myeloid, B-cell, T-cell, or other lineage |
| Haematopoietic progenitor cell marker | Assesses early blood-forming cells to detect abnormal accumulation or proliferation |
Why is a C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test Done?
Doctors request this test for several reasons, from initial diagnosis to ongoing monitoring. The sections below explain the key situations in which a C-Kit, Blood/Bone marrow test is typically ordered.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to request this test:
- Unexplained skin flushing or redness
- Recurring abdominal pain or diarrhoea
- Fainting episodes (syncope) without a clear cause
- Skin lesions or unusual patches on the skin
- Persistent fatigue or weakness
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Frequent nosebleeds
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps identify a range of serious conditions. These include:
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a cancer of the blood and bone marrow
- Systemic mastocytosis, a condition where mast cells accumulate abnormally in the bone marrow
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs), distinctive tumours of the digestive tract defined by CD117 expression
- Melanomas, breast carcinomas, and small cell lung carcinoma, where abnormal c-Kit expression has been observed
- Multiple myeloma and plasma cell leukaemia, where CD117 expression on plasma cells is relevant for diagnosis
C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test is used to monitor minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients with AML. Tracking CD117 expression over time helps doctors assess whether treatment is working. It may also be repeated periodically for patients being treated for GISTs or mastocytosis to monitor how the condition is responding.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for this test is straightforward, but following instructions carefully helps ensure accurate results.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before the C-Kit, Blood/Bone marrow test. You may eat and drink normally before your appointment. Always follow any specific instructions your doctor provides.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
The following steps will help your test go smoothly:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, as some may affect results
- Inform the doctor of any pre-existing conditions, particularly any cancer diagnosis
- Wear clothing with easy access to your arm for the blood draw
- Ensure the bone marrow sample reaches the laboratory as quickly as possible; immediate transportation after collection is required
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test involves two types of sample collection. Both are described below.
Blood Sample Collection:
- A trained phlebotomist cleans a vein in your upper arm and draws approximately 3 ml of blood into an EDTA (lavender-top) tube.
- The puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding, and the sample is labelled carefully.
- The sample is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and sent to the laboratory without delay.
- In the lab, the sample is processed using NGS to assess CD117 expression on blood cells.
- A pathologist reviews the findings and prepares a written report.
Bone Marrow Sample Collection:
- You are positioned lying on your side or face down, and the collection site (usually the hip bone) is cleaned and numbed with a local anaesthetic.
- A specialist inserts a needle into the bone and draws a small amount of the liquid portion of the bone marrow (approximately 3 ml).
- The sample is placed into a sodium heparin (green-top) tube and labelled immediately.
- The sample is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and transported to the laboratory right away, as immediate transportation is required.
- In the lab, the sample undergoes NGS analysis alongside the blood sample.
- A pathologist reviews both samples together and prepares the final report.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the quality of results. These include:
- Delay in transporting the sample to the laboratory (samples should arrive within 48 hours for optimal cell viability)
- Improper storage temperature during transit
- Use of incorrect anticoagulant tubes
- Certain medications that may alter CD117 expression
- Genetic mutations that independently cause CD117 overexpression
Understanding Your C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test Results
Results from this test are qualitative in nature, meaning they are reported as positive or negative rather than as a number. Your doctor will interpret findings alongside your symptoms, other test results, and your medical history.
| Parameter | Normal Finding | Possible Abnormal Finding |
|---|---|---|
| CD117 expression | Negative or minimal expression on mature normal cells | Significant overexpression may indicate AML, mastocytosis, GISTs, or other conditions |
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
Some factors may alter how results should be read. Certain medications or ongoing treatments can affect CD117 expression levels. Additionally, genetic mutations may cause overexpression of CD117 that is unrelated to treatment. If a blood sample is collected but bone marrow is not, a negative peripheral blood result does not always rule out systemic mastocytosis. Samples received more than 72 hours after collection may have reduced cell viability, and the report may carry a disclaimer in such cases.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
CD117 expression is determined by cellular and genetic factors, not by diet or lifestyle. General tips for those undergoing testing or treatment include:
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your haematologist (blood specialist) or oncologist (cancer specialist) as advised
- Maintain a balanced diet and adequate rest to support overall well-being during any ongoing treatment
- Discuss any concerns about your results or treatment plan openly with your doctor
Lupin Diagnostics C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test Price
The C-Kit, Blood/Bone marrow test is available at Lupin Diagnostics starting at ₹6,000. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; Home collection is not available due to the specialised nature of sample collection, particularly for bone marrow aspiration.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 6000 |
| CHENNAI | 6000 |
| HYDERABAD | 6000 |
| KOLKATA | 6000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 6000 |
| PUNE | 6000 |
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 to book your C-Kit Blood/Bone marrow test online:
- 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 C-Kit, Blood/Bone marrow test helps diagnose conditions such as acute myeloid leukaemia, systemic mastocytosis, and gastrointestinal stromal tumours. Assessing CD117 expression, it also assists doctors in classifying disease, estimating prognosis, and guiding treatment decisions.
No, fasting is not required before this test. You can eat and drink as usual on the day of your appointment. Follow any specific instructions given by your doctor or the laboratory.
No, this test cannot be performed at home. The blood draw may be straightforward, but bone marrow aspiration must be carried out in a clinical setting by a trained specialist. Home collection is not available for this test.
The C-Kit, Blood/Bone marrow test procedure involves NGS analysis, which takes time. Reports are typically available within 10 days from the date of sample collection. A pathologist reviews all findings before the report is released.
A positive or overexpressed CD117 result suggests that cells are producing an abnormal amount of this receptor protein. This finding can be associated with conditions such as AML, mastocytosis, or GISTs. Your haematologist or oncologist will interpret the result alongside other clinical information.
The C-Kit, Blood/Bone marrow test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹6,000. Prices may vary slightly depending on your city and centre. Please check the current price when booking to confirm.
The bone marrow aspiration is done under local anaesthetic, so the area is numbed before the needle is inserted. You may feel a stinging sensation when the anaesthetic is given and a brief, sharp sensation when the marrow is withdrawn. Most patients find the procedure tolerable. The blood draw is a routine procedure and causes only minor discomfort.
C-Kit, Blood/Bone Marrow Test
