del13q by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About del13q by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Chromosome 13q Deletion FISH, 13q14 Deletion FISH, D13S319 FISH, RB1 Deletion FISH |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate (primary); peripheral blood or FFPE tissue block may be accepted in certain cases |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | Adults of both genders; most commonly those over 50 years with suspected blood cancers |
| Price | Starting at ₹4,700 |
What is a del13q by FISH Test?
The del13q by FISH test uses a technique called Fluorescence in Situ Hybridisation (FISH) to look for a specific deletion on chromosome 13. This deletion, found at position 13q14, is linked to certain blood cancers and plasma cell disorders. A doctor may order this test when they suspect conditions such as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) or multiple myeloma. It is also known as the Chromosome 13q Deletion FISH or 13q14 Deletion FISH test.
What Does a del13q by FISH Test Measure?
The del13q by FISH test procedure analyses chromosomal material from your sample to identify specific genetic changes. Fluorescent probes bind to targeted DNA sequences, making deletions visible under a specialised microscope.
The test examines the following:
| Parameter | What It Looks For |
|---|---|
| 13q14 deletion | Loss of the 13q14.2 region, which contains tumour suppressor genes and microRNAs that regulate programmed cell death in B lymphocytes |
| Monosomy 13 | Complete loss of one copy of chromosome 13, seen in CLL, small lymphocytic lymphoma, and plasma cell disorders |
| Percentage of abnormal cells | Proportion of cells showing the deletion, used to determine whether a significant clonal abnormality is present |
Why is a del13q by FISH Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor needs to confirm a diagnosis, assess prognosis, or monitor the course of a blood cancer. Below are the main reasons it may be requested.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Your doctor may request this test if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands in the neck, armpits, or groin)
- Unexplained and persistent fatigue
- Recurrent infections
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Bone pain
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can help identify or assess the following conditions:
- Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), where 13q14 deletion is the most common genetic change, found in around 50% of cases
- Multiple myeloma, where 13q deletion is an important prognostic marker
- B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
- Plasma cell dyscrasias (abnormal growth of plasma cells)
- Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a pre-cancerous plasma cell condition
del13q by FISH Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
The del13q by FISH test plays an important role in monitoring disease over time. In multiple myeloma, oncologists may order this test at diagnosis and again at relapse to track how the disease is changing and how well treatment is working. Periodic testing helps guide decisions about continuing, adjusting, or changing therapy.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for this test is straightforward. However, because the primary sample is bone marrow, the collection procedure differs from a routine blood draw.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. You may eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before attending your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test.
- Tell your doctor or nurse if you take any blood-thinning medicines, as you may need to stop them before the procedure.
- Inform the clinical team of any allergies, particularly to local anaesthetic (the kind used in dental procedures).
- Tell your doctor about any other medicines or conditions that may affect bone marrow function.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing so the hip area is easy to access.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Bone Marrow Aspirate Collection
The following steps describe how a bone marrow sample is collected:
- You will lie on a bed or couch on your side, covered with a blanket. You generally do not need to undress as long as the hip area is accessible.
- The skin over the collection site is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and a local anaesthetic is injected to numb the area.
- A needle is then passed through the skin into the bone, and the liquid part of the bone marrow is drawn out by gentle suction.
- The sample is collected in a green-top sodium heparin tube and rotated carefully to mix it with the anticoagulant, preventing it from clotting.
- The whole procedure typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
- The sample is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and sent to the laboratory for analysis using the FISH method.
In certain cases, a peripheral blood sample (collected from a vein in the arm) or an FFPE tissue block may be used instead. Your doctor will advise which sample type is appropriate for you.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence how reliable the test results are:
- Low proportion of plasma cells or abnormal cells in the sample
- Poor sample quality or improper handling during transport
- Delay in sending the sample to the laboratory (samples should ideally be analysed within 48 hours)
- Not using CD138-selected cells (a plasma cell marker) when testing for multiple myeloma
- Laboratory expertise and equipment calibration
Understanding Your del13q by FISH Test Results
Results from this test are reported as either detected or not detected. Your doctor will interpret the findings alongside your full clinical picture. The table below gives a general guide to what the findings mean:
| Finding | Typical Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 13q14 deletion: Not detected | Two intact copies of the 13q14 region are present; no deletion found |
| Percentage of abnormal cells: Below laboratory cut-off (typically below 5 to 10%) | No significant clonal abnormality detected |
| 13q14 deletion: Detected (sole abnormality in CLL) | Often associated with a more favourable outlook in CLL |
| 13q14 deletion: Detected (in multiple myeloma) | May indicate a less favourable prognosis; guides treatment planning |
| Monosomy 13: Detected | Complete loss of one chromosome 13; seen in CLL and plasma cell disorders |
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
A negative result does not completely rule out a blood cancer. The absence of a detectable clone does not exclude the possibility of a neoplastic disorder, particularly if the sample contains very few abnormal cells.
In multiple myeloma, false-positive results can occur when the proportion of plasma cells in the bone marrow sample is very low. For this reason, testing on CD138-selected cells is strongly preferred to improve accuracy.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
As this test is linked to blood cancers, general wellness tips focus on supporting your overall health during care:
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your haematologist or oncologist so that any changes can be detected early.
- Report new or worsening symptoms, such as increased fatigue, new bone pain, or infections, to your healthcare team promptly.
- Discuss with your doctor any lifestyle changes, including diet and physical activity, that may support your well-being during treatment.
Lupin Diagnostics del13q by FISH Test Price
The del13q by FISH test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹4,700. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test. Prices vary by city, facility, and whether the test is ordered as a standalone probe or as part of a panel.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 4700 |
| CHENNAI | 4700 |
| HYDERABAD | 4700 |
| KOLKATA | 4700 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 4700 |
| PUNE | 4700 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
You can book the del13q by FISH test online booking through the Lupin Diagnostics website in a few simple steps:
- 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 del13q by FISH test detects deletion of a specific region on chromosome 13, known as 13q14. It helps doctors diagnose and assess the prognosis of blood cancers, such as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and multiple myeloma. The result also guides decisions about treatment.
You may feel some discomfort during the procedure, but it is usually brief. Local anaesthetic is given beforehand to numb the area, so most people tolerate it well. The entire procedure generally takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
A positive result means a deletion was found on chromosome 13q14. In CLL, when this is the only abnormality, it is often associated with a more favourable outlook. In multiple myeloma, it may indicate a less favourable prognosis. Your doctor will explain what the result means in your specific situation.
A peripheral blood sample may be accepted in certain cases, particularly for CLL. However, bone marrow is the preferred sample for multiple myeloma, as it is more likely to contain enough plasma cells for an accurate result. Your doctor will decide which sample type is appropriate.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is typically available within 3 days. Complex cases or those ordered alongside other cytogenetic tests may take longer.
If you take blood-thinning medicines, inform your doctor before the procedure, as you may need to pause them. Additionally, tell the clinical team about any other medicines or known allergies, especially to local anaesthetics. Your doctor will give you specific guidance based on your situation.
Your oncologist will decide how often to repeat the test based on your diagnosis, treatment plan, and disease status. It is typically performed at the time of diagnosis and may be repeated at relapse or when assessing your response to treatment.
del13q by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
