FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR
About FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | PDGFRA-FIP1L1 Gene Rearrangement Test, HES/Leukemia Test, 4q12 (CHIC2) Deletion Test, FIP1-Like-1/Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor Alpha Fusion Test |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (EDTA tube) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 25 days |
| Recommended For | Adults with unexplained persistent eosinophilia; more common in males aged 20 to 50 |
| Price | Starting at ₹9,300 |
What Is a FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR?
The FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test is a specialised molecular test that detects an abnormal gene fusion called FIP1L1-PDGFRA in the blood. This fusion gene causes the bone marrow to produce too many eosinophils, a type of white blood cell.
Doctors order it when a patient has persistently high eosinophil counts and common causes such as allergies or parasitic infections have been ruled out. The test is also known as the PDGFRA-FIP1L1 Gene Rearrangement test or the 4q12 (CHIC2) Deletion test.
What Does a FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR Measure?
The FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test procedure analyses peripheral blood to detect a specific gene fusion. Here is what the test looks for:
| Parameter | What It Means |
|---|---|
| FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion transcript | Detects whether the abnormal fusion gene is present or absent in the sample |
The fusion gene forms when chromosome 4 loses a small segment of DNA that normally keeps the FIP1L1 and PDGFRA genes apart. When these two genes merge, they produce an abnormal protein that continuously drives cell growth. This leads to an uncontrolled increase in eosinophils, which can damage organs including the heart, lungs, skin, and nervous system.
Why Is a FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor suspects a clonal (genetic) cause for an unusually high eosinophil count. It helps distinguish inherited gene-driven disease from reactive causes and guides treatment decisions.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may recommend the FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test if you have any of the following symptoms alongside persistently elevated eosinophil levels:
- Unexplained fatigue and general weakness
- Persistent cough or breathlessness
- Skin rashes without a clear allergic cause
- Muscle pain or joint discomfort
- Unexplained fever
- Abdominal discomfort or enlarged spleen
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The test can help identify several conditions. These include:
- Chronic eosinophilic leukemia (CEL), a blood cancer driven by the FIP1L1-PDGFRA gene rearrangement
- Hypereosinophilia (HE) and hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES)
- Myeloid neoplasms with eosinophilia, which may present as acute myeloid leukemia or T-lymphoblastic lymphoma
- Some cases of systemic mast cell disease associated with eosinophilia
FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test plays an important role in monitoring patients who are receiving treatment for FIP1L1-PDGFRA-positive disease. After starting targeted therapy, doctors use serial testing to assess whether the fusion gene is still detectable in the blood. Clinical remission is usually achieved within about a month, and molecular remission typically follows within three months.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test, but there are a few practical steps that can help the process go smoothly.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before the FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test. You may eat and drink normally before sample collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following 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 all current medications, including any supplements or over-the-counter drugs
- Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up for blood collection
- Ensure the sample reaches the laboratory promptly; if there is any delay, keep it refrigerated at approximately 4°C
Step-by-Step Procedure
The FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test procedure involves the following steps:
- A trained phlebotomist will ask you to sit comfortably and will clean the skin over a vein, usually in your arm
- A small blood sample of approximately 2 ml is drawn into a lavender-top EDTA tube
- The sample is labelled and stored at 2 to 8°C to preserve the quality of the genetic material
- The sample is transported to the laboratory, ideally within 72 hours of collection
- In the laboratory, RNA is extracted from the sample and analysed using next-generation sequencing (NGS) to detect the FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion transcript
- If the fusion is detected, the result may be confirmed through additional sequencing steps before the final report is issued
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of the result:
- Sample quality and how well the RNA is preserved during collection and transport
- Delays between sample collection and laboratory processing
- Improper storage temperature during transit
- Prior treatment with targeted therapies, which may reduce the detectable level of the fusion transcript
Understanding Your FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR Results
This test gives a qualitative result, meaning the fusion gene is either detected or not detected. Your doctor will interpret the result alongside your full blood count, clinical history, and other investigations.
| Parameter | Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion transcript | Not detected (Negative) | The fusion gene is absent; other causes of eosinophilia should be investigated |
| FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion transcript | Detected (Positive) | The fusion gene is present; consistent with a diagnosis of chronic eosinophilic leukemia per WHO criteria |
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 few points are worth keeping in mind when reviewing results:
The FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion gene is found in approximately 10 to 15% of patients diagnosed with hypereosinophilic syndrome, and in only about 0.4% of all people with persistently elevated eosinophil counts. Patients who test positive are predominantly male and may also have an enlarged spleen. A positive result suggests the patient is likely to respond well to treatment with targeted therapy at relatively low doses.
Managing and Monitoring Your Condition
This section applies to patients already diagnosed with an eosinophilic disorder:
- Attend all follow-up appointments and repeat testing as advised by your hematologist (a doctor specialising in blood disorders)
- Report any new or worsening symptoms promptly, particularly those affecting the heart, lungs, or skin
- Follow the treatment plan and medication schedule prescribed by your doctor without interruption
Lupin Diagnostics FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR Price and Home Collection
The FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹9,300, and home sample collection is available across cities.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 9300 |
| CHENNAI | 9300 |
| HYDERABAD | 9300 |
| KOLKATA | 9300 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 9300 |
| PUNE | 9300 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test online booking is straightforward:
- 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 FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test home collection across multiple cities, allowing a certified phlebotomist to visit your home at a time convenient for you. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by qualified professionals. Your digital report is delivered directly to your email or WhatsApp once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test is used to identify the FIP1L1-PDGFRA gene fusion in patients with persistently high eosinophil counts. It helps confirm a diagnosis of chronic eosinophilic leukemia or hypereosinophilic syndrome and determines whether targeted therapy with a drug called imatinib may be effective.
A doctor typically orders this test after a complete blood count (CBC) shows persistently elevated eosinophils and common reactive causes such as allergies, parasitic infection, or medication side effects have been excluded. It may also be repeated during treatment to track the response to therapy.
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink as normal before your sample is collected.
You must bring a detailed clinical history, including your current symptoms, any previous blood test results, and a doctor's prescription or referral. This information is required for the laboratory to process and interpret the test accurately.
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm into an EDTA tube. The sample is then analysed in the laboratory using next-generation sequencing (NGS) to check for the presence of the abnormal FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion transcript. The whole process is quick and similar to a routine blood draw.
The report for the FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR test is typically delivered within 25 days. This longer turnaround reflects the advanced molecular techniques involved in analysing the sample.
A positive result means the FIP1L1-PDGFRA fusion gene was detected in your blood. This is consistent with a diagnosis of chronic eosinophilic leukemia under WHO criteria and suggests the condition may respond well to targeted therapy. Your hematologist will discuss the next steps with you based on your full clinical picture.
FIP1 L1 -PDGFA RTPCR
