IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | IGHV Mutation Analysis, IGHV Somatic Hypermutation Analysis, IgVH Mutation Status Test, IGHV Mutational Status Test |
| Sample Type | Peripheral blood (EDTA tube) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 20 days |
| Recommended For | Adults diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) or Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL) |
| Price | Starting at ₹8,500 |
What is an IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test?
The IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test is a specialised molecular test that examines the mutation status of immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (IGHV) genes in blood cancer cells.
It is primarily ordered for patients already diagnosed with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) or Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL) to understand how the disease is likely to behave. Also known as IGHV Mutation Analysis or the IgVH Mutation Status Test, it uses a peripheral blood sample collected in an EDTA tube.
What Does an IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test Measure?
This test analyses the DNA of cancer B-cells to determine whether specific gene regions have undergone somatic hypermutation. The following parameters are assessed and reported:
| Parameter | What it tells us |
|---|---|
| IGHV mutation status | Whether the IGHV gene is "mutated" or "unmutated" relative to the normal germline sequence |
| Percentage identity to the germline sequence | The degree of difference between the patient's IGHV gene and the reference (germline) sequence |
| V region allele identified | The specific IGHV gene variant present in the cancer cell clone |
During healthy B-cell development, small genetic changes are intentionally introduced into certain gene regions. In CLL, whether or not these changes have occurred in the cancer cells is a key indicator of how the disease is likely to progress.
Why is an IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test Done?
Doctors order this test primarily after a diagnosis of CLL or SLL to understand the disease's likely course and to guide treatment decisions.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may order this test after CLL is confirmed in a patient presenting with the following symptoms:
- Swollen lymph nodes (enlarged glands in the neck, armpits, or groin)
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Recurrent infections that take a long time to resolve
- Unexplained weight loss
- Night sweats
- Fever and chills
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test provides prognostic information for the following conditions:
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL): helps determine prognosis and guide treatment planning
- Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): provides important information about disease outlook
- Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL): mutation status offers useful prognostic data in selected cases
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. A brief overview of what to do before and during your appointment is provided below.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required for this test. You may eat and drink normally on the day of your appointment. Continue taking any prescribed medications unless your doctor has specifically told you to stop.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep these 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 all current medications, particularly blood thinners
- Stay well hydrated before sample collection
- Wear clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up easily for a smooth blood draw
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what to expect during the IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test procedure:
- A trained phlebotomist (blood collection specialist) cleans the skin over a vein, usually at the inner elbow.
- A small needle is inserted to draw approximately 2 ml of blood into a lavender-top EDTA tube.
- The needle is removed, and a cotton swab is pressed over the site; the process is quick and causes minimal discomfort.
- The sample is labelled, stored at refrigerator temperature (2 to 8 degrees Celsius), and dispatched to the laboratory promptly.
- In the laboratory, DNA is extracted from the blood sample, and the IGHV gene region is amplified using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology.
- The sequencing results are compared against a reference germline database, and a detailed report is prepared for your doctor.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may influence the reliability of your results:
- A low proportion of CLL B-cells (below 5% of lymphocytes) may make it difficult to reliably amplify the gene sequence
- Haemolysed (broken blood cells) or clotted specimens may be rejected and require recollection
- Delays in transport; samples must reach the laboratory promptly after collection to preserve sample quality
- Results near the 2% mutation cutoff may need careful interpretation by your specialist
Understanding Your IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test Results
Results from this test are reported as "mutated" or "unmutated" and are best reviewed with your haematologist or oncologist, who will consider them alongside your full clinical picture.
| IGHV Sequence Identity to Germline | Mutation Status | Prognostic Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 98% (more than 2% mutation) | Mutated | More favourable prognosis |
| 98% or above (2% or less mutation) | Unmutated | Less favourable prognosis |
"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
Sometimes, the lab results can be tricky for doctors to interpret. This usually happens in two situations:
- Not enough cancer cells: If the amount of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) cells in your blood sample is very low (less than 5%), the test might not be able to give a clear or accurate result.
- Borderline or complex findings: If your score is right on the line (very close to the 2% cutoff mark), or if the test detects more than one type of gene change, it creates a gray area.
In both cases, your specialist will take extra time and care to carefully look over the findings before making any treatment decisions.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Because IGHV mutation status is a fixed characteristic of the cancer cells, it cannot be changed through diet or lifestyle. However, the following steps support overall well-being:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your haematologist or oncologist
- Keep a record of any new or changing symptoms to share at each visit
- Discuss the treatment approach best suited to your mutation status with your doctor
Lupin Diagnostics IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test Price
The IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹8,500. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 8500 |
| CHENNAI | 8500 |
| HYDERABAD | 8500 |
| KOLKATA | 8500 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 8500 |
| PUNE | 8500 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
The IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test online booking at Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward:
- 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
This test determines whether the IGHV genes in CLL cancer cells have undergone somatic hypermutation. The result is a critical prognostic marker that helps doctors understand how the disease is likely to progress and which treatment approach is most appropriate.
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink normally and continue your regular medications before the test, unless your doctor has advised otherwise.
A peripheral blood sample of 2 ml, collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube, is used for this test. The blood draw is performed at a Lupin Diagnostics centre by a trained professional.
A "mutated" result means the IGHV gene differs by more than 2% from the reference germline sequence, which is associated with a more favourable disease outlook. An "unmutated" result means the difference is 2% or less, which is associated with faster disease progression and may call for a different treatment strategy.
This test is typically done once, at the time of CLL diagnosis. Repeat testing is generally not necessary, as the IGHV mutation status does not change over time. Your doctor may consider repeating it if the first result was inconclusive or if the disease transforms.
No. The IGHV mutation is present only in the cancer cells and is not part of your inherited genetic makeup. It cannot be passed on to your children.
Results are typically available within 20 days of sample collection. The extended turnaround time reflects the specialised Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis required to process and interpret the test accurately.
IgVH Somatic Hyper mutation Assay Test: Booking, Price, and Results
