MAF/IgH (MM) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About MAF/IgH (MM) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | IgH/MAF FISH, t(14;16) FISH, IGH-MAF Fusion Test, MAF/IGH Translocation Test |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate (preferred), peripheral blood, or FFPE tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | Individuals undergoing evaluation for multiple myeloma or other plasma cell disorders |
| Price | Starting at ₹4,800 |
What Is an MAF/IgH (MM) Test?
The MAF/IgH (MM) test is a specialised genetic test that detects a specific chromosomal abnormality in plasma cells. It uses a technique called Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation (FISH), which uses fluorescent probes to identify gene fusions at the chromosomal level. The test is also referred to as the IgH/MAF FISH test or the IGH-MAF Fusion Test. It is ordered by haematologists and oncologists when evaluating patients with suspected or confirmed multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.
What Does an MAF/IgH (MM) Test Measure?
The MAF/IgH (MM) test procedure looks for a translocation, meaning an abnormal exchange of genetic material between two chromosomes. Here is what the test specifically examines:
| Component | What It Means |
|---|---|
| t(14;16) translocation | An abnormal swap of genetic material between chromosomes 14 and 16 |
| IgH/MAF gene fusion | The Immunoglobulin Heavy Chain (IgH) gene on chromosome 14 fuses with the MAF gene on chromosome 16 |
| MAF gene overexpression | The fusion causes the MAF gene to become overactive, driving faster myeloma cell growth |
| High-risk cytogenetics status | The t(14;16) translocation is generally considered a high-risk cytogenetic abnormality in multiple myeloma and is used in prognostic risk assessment. |
Why Is an MAF/IgH (MM) Test Done?
This test plays a key role in risk classification and treatment planning for patients with plasma cell disorders. Doctors order it at initial diagnosis and sometimes again if the disease progresses.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may order this test when a patient presents with the following symptoms:
- Persistent back pain or unexplained vertebral (spine) fractures
- Bone pain, particularly in the ribs, hips, or shoulders
- Fatigue and general weakness
- Anaemia (low red blood cell count), causing tiredness and breathlessness
- Frequent urination or excessive thirst
- Muscle weakness or confusion
- Unexplained weight loss
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The MAF/IgH (MM) test helps identify or characterise the following conditions:
- Multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells found in the bone marrow
- Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a precursor condition to myeloma
- Other plasma cell disorders such as plasmacytoma and amyloidosis
MAF/IgH (MM) Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test is most commonly performed at the time of diagnosis. Repeat testing may be considered in selected cases of disease progression or relapse if additional cytogenetic information is clinically required. The results help stratify patients into risk groups, which guides the selection of appropriate therapy.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for this test depends on the sample type being collected. The key details are straightforward and outlined below.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before the MAF/IgH (MM) test procedure. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. However, if sedation is planned for the bone marrow procedure, your doctor may advise you to avoid food and drink for a few hours beforehand. Always follow the specific instructions given by your clinical team.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following 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 medications and supplements you are currently taking.
- Tell the care team if you are on blood thinners, as you may need to stop some medications before the procedure.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the day of sample collection.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Three sample types are accepted for this test: bone marrow aspirate, peripheral blood, and an FFPE tissue block.
Bone Marrow Aspiration (Preferred):
- You lie on your side or stomach; the skin over the hip bone is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and a local anaesthetic is injected to numb the area.
- A small incision is made once the area is numb, and a hollow needle is carefully inserted into the bone.
- A syringe is attached to the needle and used to draw out bone marrow fluid, which is collected in a green-top sodium heparin tube.
- The needle is withdrawn, a dressing is applied, and you are monitored briefly before being allowed to leave.
- The sample is stored refrigerated at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and transported to the laboratory for FISH analysis.
Peripheral Blood Collection:
- A healthcare professional cleans the inside of your elbow with an antiseptic wipe.
- A needle is inserted into a vein, and approximately 3 ml of blood is drawn into a lavender-top EDTA tube.
- The needle is removed, light pressure is applied, and a small bandage is placed over the site.
- The sample is stored and transported refrigerated to the laboratory.
FFPE Tissue Block:
- An existing formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block from a prior biopsy is retrieved from the pathology archive.
- The block is packaged securely in a box and sent to the laboratory.
- Laboratory staff process the block to prepare slides suitable for FISH analysis.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of your MAF/IgH (MM) test result:
- Insufficient cell count (low cellularity) in the sample
- Delayed transport beyond the recommended timeframe
- Use of an incorrect anticoagulant tube
- Poor quality or degraded FFPE tissue block
- Low plasma cell percentage in peripheral blood compared to bone marrow
Understanding Your MAF/IgH (MM) Test Results
Your result will be reported as either negative (not detected) or positive (detected). The table below summarises what each outcome means. Always review your results with a qualified haematologist or oncologist.
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Negative (not detected) | No t(14;16) IgH/MAF fusion found; this specific high-risk abnormality is absent in the analysed cells |
| Positive (detected) | The IgH/MAF gene fusion is present; this is a high-risk cytogenetic finding, present in approximately 3 to 5% of multiple myeloma cases |
Disclaimer: 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.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
The MAF/IgH (MM) test detects permanent genetic changes in cancer cells, so the result is not influenced by diet or lifestyle. The following general tips apply to patients undergoing evaluation or treatment for myeloma:
- Follow your oncologist's treatment and follow-up plan closely.
- Attend all scheduled appointments to monitor your disease status and treatment response.
- Speak openly with your care team about any new symptoms or concerns between appointments.
Lupin Diagnostics MAF/IgH (MM) Test Price
The MAF/IgH (MM) test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹4,800. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre, as home collection is not available due to the specialist bone marrow aspiration procedure involved.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 4800 |
| CHENNAI | 4800 |
| HYDERABAD | 4800 |
| KOLKATA | 4800 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 4800 |
| PUNE | 4800 |
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 MAF/IgH (MM) test online:
- 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 MAF/IgH (MM) test is a FISH-based genetic test used in the diagnosis and management of multiple myeloma. It detects the t(14;16) translocation, where the IgH gene on chromosome 14 fuses with the MAF gene on chromosome 16. This abnormality is classified as high-risk and has important implications for prognosis and treatment.
The t(14;16) translocation causes the MAF gene to become overactive, which promotes faster and more aggressive growth of myeloma cells. It is found in approximately 3 to 5% of multiple myeloma cases. Patients with this finding are classified as high-risk and may require more intensive treatment strategies.
A doctor or specialist nurse collects a small amount of bone marrow fluid from the back of the hip bone using a needle, after numbing the area with a local anaesthetic. The MAF/IgH (MM) test procedure may also use a peripheral blood sample or an FFPE tissue block, depending on clinical requirements.
A positive result indicates the presence of the IgH-MAF fusion, which is associated with a more aggressive form of multiple myeloma. Your oncologist will use this information alongside other test findings to plan the most appropriate course of treatment.
At Lupin Diagnostics, reports are typically available within 3 days. The FISH technique requires careful laboratory processing, which is why this test takes longer than a routine blood test.
For primary cytogenetic testing at diagnosis, this test is generally performed once. Repeat testing is not routinely required during treatment. It may be considered at disease progression or relapse if clinically indicated. Your haematologist will decide whether repeat testing is necessary based on your overall disease status and treatment course.
No, this test cannot be done at home. It requires a bone marrow aspiration, which must be performed by a trained specialist in a clinical setting. Please visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre to book your appointment.
MAF/IgH (MM) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
