Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Hereditary Endocrine Cancer Panel, Endocrine Tumour Syndrome Gene Panel, MEN Gene Panel, Endocrine Neoplasia Panel |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (EDTA tube) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 25 days |
| Recommended For | Adults and children with suspected hereditary endocrine tumour syndromes; individuals with a family history of endocrine cancers |
| Price | Starting at ₹23,000 |
What is an Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test?
The Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test is a specialised genetic test that looks for inherited mutations in genes linked to tumours of the endocrine glands. It is typically ordered by a doctor when a patient or their close relatives have a history of endocrine-related tumours. Also known as the Hereditary Endocrine Cancer Panel or MEN Gene Panel, this test uses a small blood sample for analysis.
What Does an Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test Measure?
This test uses next-generation sequencing (NGS), a technology that reads DNA in detail, to identify two types of changes: small alterations in individual DNA letters and larger deletions or duplications of gene sections. The following genes are commonly examined.
| Gene(s) | Associated Condition |
|---|---|
| MEN1 | Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1; linked to parathyroid, pituitary, and pancreatic tumours |
| RET | MEN2 syndrome; linked to medullary thyroid cancer, adrenal tumours, and parathyroid adenomas |
| SDHB, SDHC, SDHD, SDHA, SDHAF2 | Hereditary paraganglioma-phaeochromocytoma syndrome |
| VHL | Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, linked to adrenal tumours and other growths |
| CDC73, MAX, PRKAR1A, PTEN, TP53, NF1, TMEM127 | Various hereditary endocrine tumour syndromes |
Why is an Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test Done?
Doctors may recommend this test when clinical signs or family history point toward an inherited endocrine cancer syndrome. It helps identify a genetic cause so that appropriate follow-up and family testing can be arranged.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Several clinical findings may lead a doctor to recommend this test. The following are the most common indications, listed in order of frequency.
- Painless neck lump, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing
- Persistent abdominal pain, severe gastric ulcers, nausea, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss
- Headaches, vision changes, irregular menstrual cycles, or unexplained lactation
- High blood pressure, rapid heart rate, severe anxiety or panic attacks, or sudden weight gain
- Frequent diarrhoea or facial flushing (redness and warmth of the face and neck)
- Shakiness, dizziness, sweating, or confusion due to low blood sugar
- Increased urination, excessive thirst, or blurred vision due to high blood sugar
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe fatigue or constant weakness
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This panel can help identify a range of inherited conditions. The conditions below may be detected based on the gene variants found.
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1 (MEN1): linked to parathyroid, pancreatic, and pituitary tumours
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2A and 2B (MEN2): linked to medullary thyroid cancer and adrenal tumours
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 4 (MEN4): overlapping features with other MEN syndromes
- Hereditary paraganglioma-phaeochromocytoma syndrome
- Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, Cowden syndrome, Carney complex, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for the Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test. However, a few steps before your appointment will help the process run smoothly.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Being prepared with the right information and documents will help the laboratory process your sample correctly.
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Carry any available histopathology reports (tissue examination reports) and your doctor's prescription
- Inform the laboratory if you have previously had a bone marrow transplant, as this can affect results
- Drink enough water before your appointment for easier blood collection
- Pre-test genetic counselling is recommended; it helps you understand the purpose and limitations of the test before proceeding
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A trained phlebotomist (blood collection specialist) will clean a small area of your arm with an antiseptic swab.
- A needle is used to draw approximately 2 ml of blood from a vein; this is stored in a lavender-top EDTA tube.
- The sample is labelled, sealed, and refrigerated at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for transport to the laboratory.
- At the lab, DNA is extracted from your blood sample.
- The DNA is analysed using NGS technology to examine the relevant genes.
- Results are reviewed by genetic specialists, and a detailed interpretive report is prepared and delivered to you.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Certain factors may influence the reliability of your test result. The following are worth noting before and at the time of testing.
- Prior bone marrow transplantation can alter the DNA profile in blood samples
- Poor sample quality or labelling errors at collection
- An incomplete or missing clinical history submitted with the sample
- Technical limitations: some rare variants, such as very low-level mosaic changes (mutations present in only a small fraction of cells) or deep intronic variants, may not be detected
Understanding Your Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test Results
Results from this test are qualitative, meaning they are reported as variant categories rather than numbers. A genetic specialist or doctor will interpret your result in the context of your clinical details and family history.
| Result Category | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Pathogenic variant | Strong evidence that the variant causes disease; family testing and changes to medical management are recommended |
| Likely pathogenic variant | Strong evidence favouring disease causation; family testing is typically recommended |
| Variant of uncertain significance (VUS) | The variant's significance is unclear with current evidence; management is guided by personal and family history |
| Likely benign or Benign | The variant is not expected to cause disease |
| Negative | No pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant found in the genes analysed |
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
Certain circumstances can influence how results are interpreted or the reliability of findings.
- A prior bone marrow transplant can affect the genetic profile of blood, making results less reliable; inform your doctor and the laboratory about this before testing.
- Reduced penetrance has been observed for several genes, including SDHB, SDHD, and TMEM127, meaning a person with a mutation may not develop the associated condition.
- For SDHD and SDHAF2, pathogenic variants are only expressed when inherited from the father (maternal imprinting); a maternal inheritance pattern may not lead to disease.
- A negative result does not fully exclude a hereditary syndrome, as the responsible gene may not be included in the panel, or the variant may be below the detection threshold.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Because this is a genetic test, results cannot be changed. However, knowing your status allows you to take practical steps.
- If a pathogenic variant is identified, follow the surveillance schedule recommended by your doctor or genetic counsellor.
- Inform at-risk relatives about the option of predictive genetic testing so they can make informed decisions.
- Maintain regular appointments with your healthcare team to monitor your health over time.
Lupin Diagnostics Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test Price and Home Collection
The Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test is available at Lupin Diagnostics starting at ₹23,000, with home sample collection available across cities. The following table lists cities where this test can be booked.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 23000 |
| CHENNAI | 23000 |
| HYDERABAD | 23000 |
| KOLKATA | 23000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 23000 |
| PUNE | 23000 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers home sample collection for the Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test across multiple cities. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by experienced specialists. Your digital report is shared securely via email or WhatsApp once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test is a genetic test that analyses multiple genes simultaneously using NGS technology. It identifies inherited mutations that increase a person's risk of developing tumours in the endocrine glands. Doctors typically order it when clinical findings or family history suggest a hereditary endocrine syndrome.
This test is recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of endocrine tumours, early-onset hyperparathyroidism, medullary thyroid cancer, phaeochromocytoma, or multiple primary tumours. A doctor or genetic counsellor will assess whether testing is appropriate based on your clinical details.
A small blood sample of approximately 2 ml is drawn from a vein in your arm and collected in an EDTA tube. No fasting or special preparation is needed beforehand. Home collection is available, so you can have your sample taken at a time and place that suits you.
Results for the Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test are typically delivered within 25 days from the date the sample is received at the laboratory. This longer turnaround is due to the detailed DNA analysis involved in NGS-based testing.
A positive result means a pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant was found in one of the genes tested. It indicates an increased inherited risk for specific endocrine tumours. Your doctor or genetic counsellor will discuss the next steps, which may include surveillance, family testing, or referral to a specialist.
A negative result means no pathogenic variant was found in the genes included in the panel. It does not completely exclude a hereditary syndrome, as the responsible gene may not be part of the panel tested. Your doctor will continue to assess your risk based on your symptoms and family history.
Genetic counselling before the Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test is strongly recommended. It helps you understand the purpose, benefits, and limitations of the test. After results are available, a genetic counsellor can explain what the findings mean for you and your family and guide further decisions.
Endocrine Cancer Gene Panel Test: Booking, Price, and Results
