FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry: Booking, Price, and Results
About FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | FMC-7, CD20 Epitope FMC7, Flow Cytometry FMC7 Marker |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow (collected in sodium heparin and EDTA tubes) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 3 Days |
| Recommended For | Adults of all genders, particularly those with suspected B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders |
| Price | Starting at ₹2,300 |
What is an FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry?
The FMC 7 by flow cytometry test detects a specific marker called FMC7 on the surface of B lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune system. This marker is closely linked to the CD20 protein and helps doctors identify and classify abnormal B-cell populations. The test uses a technique called flow cytometry, which analyses individual cells in a sample at high speed. It is typically prescribed when a doctor suspects a blood cancer or a lymphoproliferative disorder (a condition where certain blood cells grow abnormally).
What Does an FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry Measure?
This test analyses bone marrow cells to assess FMC7 expression on B lymphocytes. The findings below describe what is evaluated during the test.
| Component | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| FMC7 expression | Detects a specific shape-dependent site on the CD20 protein found on mature B lymphocytes |
| B-cell subset identification | Distinguishes FMC7-positive B cells from other blood cell types such as T cells, NK cells, platelets, and red blood cells |
| B-cell maturation stage | Identifies B lymphocytes at a distinct stage of development based on their surface immunoglobulin (antibody molecules on the cell surface) |
Why is an FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry Done?
Doctors order this test when a patient shows signs of a blood or lymphatic system disorder. It is used both to reach a diagnosis and to monitor disease in known cases.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to order an FMC 7 by flow cytometry test:
- Painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin
- Persistent, unexplained fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Recurrent or unusual infections
- Night sweats without an obvious cause
- Persistent low-grade fever
- Feeling of fullness in the abdomen due to an enlarged spleen
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test helps in identifying and distinguishing several B-cell conditions, including:
- Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), a slow-growing blood cancer involving B lymphocytes
- B-cell prolymphocytic leukaemia
- Hairy cell leukaemia (HCL), identified by its strong FMC7 positivity
- Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL)
- Follicular cell lymphoma, large cell lymphoma, and Waldenström's macroglobulinaemia
FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry for Chronic Disease Monitoring
The FMC 7 flow cytometry test is used to monitor patients already receiving treatment. Flow cytometry can detect minimal residual disease (MRD), which means very small numbers of cancer cells remaining after treatment. This information helps doctors assess how well a treatment is working and adjust the plan if needed.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No major preparation is usually needed, but a few simple steps help ensure the sample is suitable for testing.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before this test. You can eat and drink normally on the day of collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
A few points to keep 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
- Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, especially anti-CD20 therapies such as rituximab, as these can affect FMC7 expression
- Wear clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up easily
- Stay well-hydrated before the visit
Step-by-Step Procedure
This test requires a bone marrow sample, which is collected at a diagnostic centre by a trained specialist. The steps below describe what to expect.
Bone Marrow Collection:
- You will be asked to lie in a specific position. The skin over the collection site (usually the hip bone) is cleaned with antiseptic.
- A local anaesthetic is given to numb the area before the procedure begins.
- A specialist inserts a needle into the bone marrow and draws a small sample, usually around 3 ml, into two separate tubes: one sodium heparin (green-topped) tube and one EDTA (lavender-topped) tube.
- After collection, a dressing is applied to the site. Most patients can go home the same day.
- The samples are labelled, stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, and sent to the laboratory for flow cytometry analysis.
- Since the test requires living cells, the sample is processed promptly after collection.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors can influence the reliability of results:
- Delay in sample processing (samples should reach the lab within 48 hours of collection)
- Clotted or haemolysed samples that are not suitable for analysis
- Prior treatment with anti-CD20 therapies, which may reduce or alter FMC7 detection
- Improper storage or transport conditions
- Low cell viability due to a poorly collected sample
Understanding Your FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry Results
Results from this test must always be reviewed alongside a patient's full clinical picture. The table below provides a general guide to interpreting FMC7 expression.
| FMC7 Expression | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Positive (30% or more of cells positive) | May suggest hairy cell leukaemia, mantle cell lymphoma, atypical CLL, or B-cell prolymphocytic leukaemia |
| Negative or dim (less than 30% positive) | Typical pattern seen in classic chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) |
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
FMC7 detects a shape-dependent site on the CD20 protein, and this shape is thought to depend on cholesterol levels in the cell membrane. Changes in membrane cholesterol may therefore affect FMC7 expression levels. In CLL, CD20 expression is typically weak, and because FMC7 is only detectable when CD20 is expressed strongly, results in CLL cases may appear negative even in CD20-positive cells. Prior treatment with anti-CD20 agents can also alter FMC7 detection.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
FMC7 is a cell surface marker and is not directly influenced by lifestyle choices. However, these general habits support overall health:
- Attend regular health check-ups if you have known risk factors for blood disorders
- Report persistent symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes to your doctor without delay
- Follow your treating doctor's guidance on monitoring schedules if you are under treatment for a B-cell condition
Lupin Diagnostics FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry Price and Home Collection
The FMC 7 by flow cytometry test is available at Lupin Diagnostics starting at ₹2,300, with home sample collection available in select cities.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 2300 |
| CHENNAI | 2300 |
| HYDERABAD | 2300 |
| KOLKATA | 2300 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 2300 |
| PUNE | 2300 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the FMC 7 by flow cytometry 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 3 days of sample collection.
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers home sample collection for this test across multiple cities. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by trained specialists. Your digital report is made accessible within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
FMC7 is a specific recognisable site on the CD20 protein found on the surface of certain B lymphocytes. Both FMC7 and CD20 relate to the same gene product, but FMC7 detects a particular shape that CD20 takes only under certain conditions. Together, they help characterise B-cell populations in diagnostic testing.
FMC7 is one of five markers used in the Matutes scoring system for CLL. Typical CLL shows a negative FMC7 result, which contributes to a higher CLL score. Studies have shown that including FMC7 in this scoring system achieves over 94% accuracy in distinguishing CLL from other B-cell disorders.
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink as normal before your appointment. However, do bring your clinical history and inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the FMC 7 by flow cytometry report is delivered within 3 days. The report will be sent to you digitally via email or WhatsApp.
A positive FMC7 result means that 30% or more of the B cells in the sample express the FMC7 marker. This pattern is associated with conditions such as hairy cell leukaemia, mantle cell lymphoma, and certain atypical variants of CLL. Your doctor will interpret this alongside other test results and your clinical history.
A negative or dim FMC7 result is the typical pattern in classic chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. It does not rule out all blood disorders. Results are always reviewed in the context of the full immunophenotyping panel and clinical findings.
The Matutes scoring system uses five markers, including FMC7, CD20-related surface immunoglobulin, CD5, CD23, and CD22 or CD79b, to distinguish typical CLL from other B-cell conditions. FMC7 negativity adds one point to the CLL score, while positivity suggests the condition may be something other than typical CLL.
FMC 7 by Flow Cytometry: Booking, Price, and Results
