MDS FISH Panel (FISH [del(5q), del(7q)]) Test

The MDS FISH Panel (FISH [del(5q), del(7q)]) test is a specialised genetic test used to detect specific chromosome abnormalities associated with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a group of blood and bone marrow disorders. It uses a technique called fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), which employs fluorescent probes to detect loss (deletion) of specific regions on chromosomes 5 and 7. The test is typically requested by a haematologist (blood specialist) when MDS is suspected or already diagnosed. It is also known as the MDS Cytogenetic Panel or the MDS FISH Panel.

Doctors order this test to investigate abnormal blood counts or confirm a suspected diagnosis of MDS. It can also track how a known condition is responding to treatment.

Common Symptoms That May Require This Test

The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to request the MDS FISH Panel (FISH [del(5q), del(7q)]) test:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness due to low red blood cell counts (anaemia)
• Unexplained breathlessness or feeling faint
• Pale or yellowish skin
• Frequent or recurring infections
• Unusual bruising or bleeding that takes longer than normal to stop
• Unexplained weight loss

Conditions This Test Can Help Detect

This test can assist in identifying or confirming the following conditions:

• Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a clonal disorder of the blood-forming stem cells in the bone marrow
• 5q syndrome, a distinctive form of MDS caused by an isolated deletion of the long arm of chromosome 5
• Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), which may arise from MDS and may show overlapping cytogenetic abnormalities such as del(5q) or del(7q)

No special preparation is required before the MDS FISH Panel (FISH [del(5q), del(7q)]) test procedure. However, there are a few steps that help ensure a smooth experience.

Do You Need to Fast?

No fasting is required for this test. You may eat and drink as normal before your appointment.

Practical Tips Before Your Test

Here are a few practical steps to keep in mind before the procedure:

• 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, especially chemotherapy or radiation therapy, as these can affect the sample.
• If you feel particularly anxious, let your doctor know in advance, as a mild sedative may be available.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you to the appointment, particularly if you expect to feel drowsy afterwards.

Step-by-Step Procedure

The sample for this test is collected as a bone marrow aspirate, usually from the back of the hip bone. Here is what to expect:

1. You will be asked to lie on a table, and the collection site (usually the back of the hip bone) will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
2. A local anaesthetic is injected to numb the area. You may feel a brief sting at this point.
3. Once the area is numb, the doctor inserts a thin needle through the skin and into the bone. You may feel mild pressure or a brief pulling sensation.
4. A small syringe draws out approximately 3 ml of liquid bone marrow, which is transferred into a green sodium heparin tube.
5. The needle is removed, a dressing is applied, and you will be asked to rest briefly at the centre.
6. The labelled sample is transported to the laboratory under recommended conditions (typically 2–8°C) for FISH analysis.

If the peripheral blood sample is requested alongside bone marrow, a separate 3 ml sample is drawn from a vein in your arm into a lavender EDTA tube.

Factors That Can Affect Accuracy

The following factors may affect how reliable the test results are:

• Poor sample quality due to a difficult bone marrow draw
• Use of an incorrect anticoagulant tube
• Delays in transporting the sample to the laboratory
• Ongoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy at the time of collection
• Failure to provide adequate clinical history with the sample

While chromosome abnormalities cannot be prevented through lifestyle alone, the following steps support overall health during and after treatment:

• Reduce exposure to known risk factors such as benzene, tobacco smoke, and pesticides, which are associated with bone marrow disorders.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein to support your body's recovery.
• Attend all follow-up appointments with your haematologist so that any changes in your condition are caught early.

Booking the MDS FISH Panel (FISH [del(5q), del(7q)]) test online with Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward:

1. Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
2. Choose your city and preferred centre location.
3. Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection.
4. Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.