Del17p by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About Del17p by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | FISH for TP53 Deletion, 17p Deletion by FISH, del(17p) FISH, p53 Deletion FISH, Chromosome 17p Deletion Test |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate, peripheral blood, or FFPE tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | Adults diagnosed with or suspected of having multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), or other blood cancers; males and females |
| Price | Starting at ₹5,000 |
What is a del17p by FISH Test?
The del17p by FISH test is a specialised laboratory test that checks for a deletion on the short arm of chromosome 17. This region contains the TP53 gene, which plays a key role in controlling abnormal cell growth. Doctors order this test to assess prognosis and guide treatment decisions in blood cancers such as multiple myeloma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL).
The test uses a technique called fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), which attaches a fluorescent probe to specific chromosomes to detect missing or abnormal genetic material. Samples are collected as bone marrow aspirate, peripheral blood, or an FFPE tissue block, depending on clinical requirements.
What Does a del17p by FISH Test Measure?
The del17p by FISH test analyses chromosome material at a very precise level. Here is what the test examines:
| Component | What It Checks |
|---|---|
| Chromosome 17p deletion | Whether the short arm of chromosome 17 is missing, fully or partially |
| TP53 gene status | Presence or absence of the TP53 tumour suppressor gene at region 17p13.1 |
| Percentage of affected cells | How many cells in the sample carry the 17p deletion |
The TP53 gene normally helps suppress tumour formation. A deletion in this region removes a critical protective mechanism, which can affect how a cancer behaves and how it responds to treatment.
Why is a del17p by FISH Test Done?
A haematologist or oncologist may request this test as part of a work-up for blood cancers or when planning treatment. Below are the common reasons this test is ordered.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to investigate for a blood cancer and order a del17p by FISH test:
- Unexplained fatigue or persistent weakness
- Bone pain, particularly in the back or hips
- Recurrent or unusual infections
- Night sweats without a clear cause
- Unintentional weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Anaemia symptoms such as breathlessness or pallor
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can help identify and risk-stratify the following conditions:
- Multiple myeloma (MM), where the deletion is found in roughly 10% of newly diagnosed cases and more frequently in advanced disease
- Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), where the deletion is linked to poor treatment response and poorer outcomes
- Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and other plasma cell disorders
del17p by FISH Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
In multiple myeloma, FISH re-evaluation at each relapse is recommended in clinical practice because cytogenetic changes, including the acquisition of del(17p), can emerge over time and negatively affect outcomes. In CLL, FISH testing should be repeated before each new line of treatment and at disease relapse. This makes the del17p by FISH test an important tool throughout a patient's treatment journey, not only at first diagnosis.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The del17p by FISH test procedure requires specific sample types. Below is a guide to preparation, what happens during sample collection, and factors that can influence accuracy.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before this test. You may eat and drink as normal before your appointment.
If your doctor has ordered additional blood tests on the same day, check with them whether any of those require fasting.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially blood thinners, as these may need to be paused temporarily
- Have something to eat and drink before your appointment to reduce the chance of feeling light-headed during the procedure
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the hip area if bone marrow collection is needed
- Consider bringing a family member or friend who can accompany you home afterwards
- Notify the clinical team of any known allergies to local anaesthetics
Step-by-Step Procedure
The del17p by FISH test may require one or more of the following sample types: bone marrow aspirate, peripheral blood, or an FFPE tissue block. Below is what the collection process typically involves.
Bone Marrow Sample:
- You will be asked to lie on your side or front on a clinical bed. The entire procedure usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes.
- The skin over the back of the hip bone is cleaned with an antiseptic solution and local anaesthetic is injected to numb the area.
- A needle is passed carefully through the skin into the bone. A small amount of the liquid portion of the bone marrow is drawn out by suction into a green-top sodium heparin tube (3 ml).
- A dressing is applied to the site. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort during the procedure, but the local anaesthetic minimises sharp pain.
Peripheral Blood Sample:
- A trained phlebotomist draws 3 ml of blood from a vein in your arm into a lavender-top EDTA tube. This is a standard blood draw and takes only a few minutes.
FFPE Tissue Block (if applicable):
- If a tissue block is required, this will already have been collected during a prior biopsy procedure. The fixed tissue is prepared and dispatched in a box as per laboratory instructions.
All samples are stored between 2°C and 8°C and dispatched to the laboratory for FISH analysis. Results are available within 3 days of the sample being received.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may influence the reliability of your del17p by FISH results:
- Poor sample quality or low cell viability at the time of collection
- Inadequate number of cells for analysis (the laboratory typically examines at least 200 cells)
- Delay in the sample reaching the laboratory beyond the acceptable window
- Incorrect storage temperature during transit
- A very small clone of cells carrying the deletion, which may fall below the detection threshold
Understanding Your del17p by FISH Test Results
Results from the del17p by FISH test are reported based on the percentage of cells showing a deletion signal. Your treating haematologist or oncologist will interpret these findings alongside your full clinical picture.
| Parameter | Normal Finding | Positive (Deletion Detected) |
|---|---|---|
| TP53/17p signals per cell | 2 signals (both gene copies present) | 1 or 0 signals in a significant percentage of cells |
| Positive threshold (CLL) | Below 10% abnormal cells | Greater than 10% abnormal cells |
| Positive threshold (MM) | Varies by centre; commonly above 60% for clinical significance | Above the laboratory cut-off |
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
The proportion of cells carrying the deletion can vary widely between patients and may change as the disease progresses. In multiple myeloma, del(17p) is more likely to be detected at relapse than at initial diagnosis. If the deletion is present in only a small fraction of cells (a minor clone), there is a possibility of a false negative result. Disease stage and clonal evolution can therefore affect both detection and clinical significance.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Because this is a genetic test used in oncology, lifestyle changes do not alter the presence or absence of a chromosomal deletion. The following steps, however, support your overall care:
- Follow your haematologist-oncologist's recommended treatment and monitoring schedule closely
- Keep all follow-up appointments so that any changes in disease status are detected promptly
- Maintain open communication with your medical team about any new symptoms or concerns
Lupin Diagnostics del17p by FISH Test Price
The del17p by FISH test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹5,000. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available because bone marrow aspirate collection must be performed by a trained clinical specialist in a suitable clinical setting.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 5000 |
| CHENNAI | 5000 |
| HYDERABAD | 5000 |
| KOLKATA | 5000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 5000 |
| PUNE | 5000 |
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 del17p by FISH test online with Lupin Diagnostics:
- 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 del17p by FISH test detects deletion of the short arm of chromosome 17, which contains the TP53 tumour suppressor gene. Doctors use it to assess disease prognosis and guide treatment choices in blood cancers such as multiple myeloma and CLL. It helps identify patients who may not respond well to standard chemotherapy.
This test may require a bone marrow aspirate, a peripheral blood sample, or an FFPE tissue block, depending on the clinical situation. Your doctor will advise which sample type is appropriate for you. Bone marrow aspirate is the most commonly used sample for this test.
No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally before your appointment. Do inform your doctor about any blood-thinning medications you are taking, as these may need to be temporarily paused before bone marrow collection.
At Lupin Diagnostics, your report will be ready within 3 days of sample receipt. Your doctor will explain the findings and discuss next steps based on the results.
A positive result means that a significant percentage of cells show deletion of the 17p region of chromosome 17. This is associated with a more aggressive disease course and potential resistance to certain standard treatments in conditions like CLL and multiple myeloma. Your doctor will discuss what this means for your specific treatment plan.
Yes, repeat testing is often recommended. In CLL, guidelines suggest repeating the test before each new line of treatment. In multiple myeloma, re-testing at each relapse is recommended, as genetic changes can occur as the disease evolves over time.
The del17p by FISH test procedure often requires a bone marrow aspirate, which must be collected by a trained haematologist in a clinical setting under local anaesthetic. This cannot be performed at home. You will need to visit a Lupin Diagnostics centre or an associated clinical facility for sample collection.
Del17p by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
