FISH - Inv(16) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About FISH - Inv(16) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | FISH Inv(16), CBFB FISH, CBFB Rearrangement FISH, LSI CBFB FISH, CBFB/MYH11 FISH test, LSI CBFB test |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate (preferred) or peripheral blood |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 3 Days |
| Recommended For | All genders and ages; primarily patients with suspected or confirmed acute myeloid leukaemia |
| Price | Starting at ₹4,600 |
What is a FISH - Inv(16) Test?
The FISH - Inv(16) test is a specialised molecular cytogenetics test that detects a specific chromosomal abnormality in chromosome 16. It uses fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), a technique that attaches fluorescent probes to DNA to identify genetic changes under a microscope. The test is ordered for patients with suspected or diagnosed acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) to confirm a subtype and guide treatment planning. It is also known as CBFB FISH or the CBFB Rearrangement FISH test.
What Does a FISH - Inv(16) Test Measure?
This test looks for a specific genetic change in chromosome 16 that is strongly linked to a particular subtype of AML. Here is what the test analyses:
| Component | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| CBFB gene rearrangement | An inversion or rearrangement of chromosome 16 that fuses the CBFB and MYH11 genes |
| Inv(16)(p13q22) abnormality | A structural change where a segment of chromosome 16 is inverted, bringing two genes abnormally close together |
| Signal pattern (1R1G1F) | The fluorescent pattern under the microscope; an abnormal pattern indicates the fusion gene is present |
When the CBFB and MYH11 genes fuse, normal blood cell development is disrupted. This fusion is the defining feature of AML subtype M4Eo, a form of acute myelomonocytic leukaemia with abnormal eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).
Why is a FISH - Inv(16) Test Done?
Doctors order this test to confirm a diagnosis of a specific AML subtype and to help decide the most appropriate treatment approach.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
Patients are typically referred for this test after blood counts raise concern. The following symptoms may prompt further investigation:
- Persistent fatigue and generalised weakness
- Recurrent or unusual infections and fever
- Anaemia (low red blood cells, causing paleness and breathlessness)
- Easy bruising or unexplained bleeding
- Shortness of breath
- Bone pain or tenderness
- Headaches or dizziness without a clear cause
- Frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or purplish/red spots on the skin caused by a low platelet count.
- Unexplained swelling in the abdomen/belly, or swollen lymph nodes.
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The FISH - Inv(16) test helps identify or confirm the following:
- AML subtype M4Eo (acute myelomonocytic leukaemia with abnormal eosinophils)
- AML with inv(16)(p13.1q22) or t(16;16)(p13.1;q22) carrying the CBFB-MYH11 fusion
- Classification of AML subtypes to inform treatment decisions
- Identification of patients carrying the chromosomal inversion for monitoring purposes
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is required before this test. However, there are a few practical points to keep in mind before your appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for the FISH - Inv Test. You may eat and drink normally before sample collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following 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
- Inform your doctor about all current medications, including blood thinners or supplements
- Follow any specific instructions provided by the treating haematologist or the collection facility
- Bone marrow aspiration is performed in a clinical setting by trained medical professionals; arrange transport and assistance if needed
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test requires two types of samples: bone marrow aspirate and peripheral blood. Both are collected in a clinical setting.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Collection:
- A doctor or trained specialist will clean and numb the skin over the hip bone using a local anaesthetic.
- A thin needle is inserted into the bone to draw out a small amount of bone marrow fluid (approximately 3 ml) into a sodium heparin (green-top) tube.
- The site is dressed and monitored briefly for any bleeding.
Peripheral Blood Collection:
- A trained phlebotomist cleans the skin over a vein in your arm.
- A small blood sample (approximately 3 ml) is drawn into an EDTA (lavender-top) tube.
- A cotton swab is applied to the puncture site.
Sample Dispatch (Both Samples):
- Both samples are labelled with your clinical details and stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for transport.
- Samples are sent to the cytogenetics laboratory, where fluorescent probes are applied to the chromosomes and examined under a fluorescence microscope.
- Results are prepared by a specialist and delivered within 3 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may affect the reliability of your results:
- Clotted or haemolysed (damaged) specimens
- Samples collected more than 24 hours before processing
- Samples from patients who have recently had a blood transfusion
- Inadequate cell count in the sample
- Improper storage or transport conditions
Understanding Your FISH - Inv(16) Test Results
Your results should always be reviewed by a qualified haematologist or oncologist alongside your full clinical picture. The table below outlines what the findings typically mean.
| Parameter | Normal Result | Abnormal Result |
|---|---|---|
| CBFB rearrangement | Negative (not detected) | Positive (detected) |
| Signal pattern (1R1G1F) | Less than 4.2% of cells affected | At or above the laboratory cutoff |
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.
A negative result means no CBFB rearrangement was found. However, a negative result does not completely rule out a blood disorder, and further tests may still be needed.
A positive result indicates the presence of inv(16) or t(16;16) and confirms the AML M4Eo subtype regardless of blast cell counts.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
This is a diagnostic cancer test, not a routine wellness screen. The following general guidance applies after receiving results:
- Attend all follow-up appointments recommended by your haematologist-oncologist
- Maintain good nutrition and hydration to support overall health during any treatment period
- Report any new or worsening symptoms to your treating doctor promptly
Lupin Diagnostics FISH - Inv(16) Test Price
The FISH - Inv(16) test is available at Lupin Diagnostics starting at ₹4,600. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre, as bone marrow aspiration must be performed by trained medical professionals in a clinical setting. Home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 4600 |
| CHENNAI | 4600 |
| HYDERABAD | 4600 |
| KOLKATA | 4600 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 4600 |
| PUNE | 4600 |
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 FISH - Inv Test at 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 FISH - Inv(16) test is used to detect a specific chromosomal change in chromosome 16 that is associated with a subtype of acute myeloid leukaemia. Identifying this abnormality helps doctors confirm the diagnosis, classify the AML subtype, and plan treatment accordingly.
The test requires either a bone marrow aspirate or a peripheral blood sample, or both. Bone marrow is collected by a specialist using a needle inserted into the hip bone under local anaesthetic. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm. Both procedures must take place in a clinical setting.
The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic before the procedure, which reduces pain significantly. You may feel some pressure or a brief, sharp sensation. After the procedure, mild soreness at the site is common for a day or two. Your doctor will advise you on managing any discomfort.
A positive result confirms the presence of the CBFB-MYH11 gene fusion, consistent with AML with inv(16) or t(16;16). This subtype is generally considered to have a favourable response to treatment. Individual prognosis depends on many factors and should be discussed in detail with your oncologist.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is delivered within 3 days. Turnaround times may vary slightly depending on sample quality and laboratory workload.
No. The FISH - Inv Test requires bone marrow aspiration, which can only be performed by trained medical professionals in a clinical setting. FISH - Inv Test home collection is not available for this reason.
Yes. This test is usually part of a broader diagnostic work-up. Doctors may also order a complete blood count, bone marrow biopsy, conventional cytogenetic (karyotype) analysis, and additional molecular tests to get a complete picture of the leukaemia and plan the best course of action.
FISH - Inv(16) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
