N-Myc Oncogene Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About N-Myc Oncogene Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | MYCN Amplification Test, N-myc Gene Amplification Test, MYCN FISH Test, MYCN Neuroblastoma Test |
| Sample Type | FFPE Tissue Block (formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumour tissue) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 8 Days |
| Recommended For | Children (primarily under 5 years) with suspected or confirmed neuroblastoma; all genders |
| Price | Starting at ₹9,600 |
What Is an N-Myc Oncogene Test?
The N-myc oncogene test detects whether the MYCN gene in tumour cells is amplified, meaning present in abnormally high numbers of copies. It is primarily ordered for children diagnosed with or suspected of having neuroblastoma, a cancer that develops in immature nerve cells. The test is performed on a tumour tissue sample and uses a laboratory technique called FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridisation). It is also known as the MYCN amplification test, N-myc gene amplification test, MYCN FISH test, or MYCN neuroblastoma test.
What Does an N-Myc Oncogene Test Measure?
The N-myc oncogene test examines tumour tissue at the genetic level. It focuses on two key findings:
| Parameter | What It Means |
|---|---|
| MYCN gene copy number | Counts the number of MYCN gene copies present in each tumour cell; normal cells carry two copies |
| MYCN amplification status | Determines whether the gene has been amplified; a more than fourfold increase in MYCN signals relative to chromosome 2 centromere signals is classified as amplified |
In normal cells, two signals are visible under the fluorescence microscope. When amplification is present, many additional signals appear, indicating that the gene has been excessively duplicated.
Why Is an N-Myc Oncogene Test Done?
A doctor may order this test after a neuroblastoma diagnosis to understand how aggressive the tumour is and to guide treatment decisions. The result directly influences which risk group the patient falls into and what therapy is planned.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may request this test when a child shows signs that suggest neuroblastoma. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent tiredness and unusual paleness
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
- A noticeable lump or mass in the abdomen
- Bone pain or difficulty walking
- Jerky, uncontrolled eye movements (a condition called opsoclonus)
- Swelling or discomfort in the neck or chest area
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test is relevant in the evaluation of several cancers where MYCN gene amplification plays a role. These include:
- Neuroblastoma (the most common indication)
- Brain cancer and medulloblastoma (a specific type of brain tumour)
- Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (a soft tissue cancer)
- Small-cell lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- MYCN-amplified spinal ependymoma (a spinal cord tumour)
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparation for this test is straightforward. Here is what you should know before your sample is collected.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. However, if the biopsy is performed under general anaesthesia, your medical team will give you specific fasting instructions to follow before the procedure. Always follow those instructions carefully.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before the sample is collected and submitted:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including current symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Inform the oncologist about any recent chemotherapy or radiotherapy, as this may be relevant to interpreting results
- Inform the doctor of all current medications, particularly blood thinners
- Disclose any known bleeding disorders or allergies to anaesthesia
- Follow all pre-procedure preparation instructions provided by the surgical team
- Arrange for someone to accompany you or your child on the day of the biopsy
Step-by-Step Procedure
The N-myc oncogene test procedure involves tumour tissue collection and specialised laboratory analysis. Here is what the process typically involves:
- The doctor examines the patient and identifies the tumour site using imaging such as ultrasound or a CT scan.
- The biopsy area is cleaned and local or general anaesthesia is administered, depending on the tumour's location and the patient's age.
- Using imaging guidance, a needle is inserted to collect tumour tissue cores; in some cases, a surgical approach may be used for accessible tumours, or a bone marrow sample may be obtained.
- The collected tissue is preserved in formalin and embedded in a paraffin wax block (this is called an FFPE block), which is stored at room temperature and transported safely to the laboratory.
- In the laboratory, thin slices of the tissue block are placed on glass slides. The DNA is prepared, and fluorescently labelled probes that attach specifically to the N-myc gene region are applied.
- A scientist examines the slides under a fluorescence microscope, counts the gene signals in multiple tumour cell nuclei, and calculates the MYCN copy number. The results are then reported by a specialist.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of the test result:
- Insufficient tumour tissue or poor sample quality
- A low proportion of tumour cells in the sample
- Improper formalin fixation or inadequate paraffin embedding
- Damage to the tissue block from heat exposure during transport
Understanding Your N-Myc Oncogene Test Results
Results from this test are reported as either amplified or non-amplified. A specialist pathologist interprets the number of gene signals counted across multiple tumour cells. The table below shows the interpretation of test results:
| Finding | Description |
|---|---|
| Non-amplified (normal) | Two MYCN gene copies detected per cell; associated with lower-risk disease |
| Amplified (positive) | More than a fourfold increase in MYCN signals relative to chromosome 2; associated with high-risk disease classification |
Disclaimer: These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your child's age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain circumstances can make result interpretation more complex:
- A low fraction of tumour cells in the biopsy specimen may prevent an accurate count of MYCN gene copies, potentially leading to an inconclusive result.
- Inadequate tissue fixation or sample degradation before laboratory processing can also affect the quality of the FISH signals.
- In cases where the tumour shows heterogeneity, the MYCN status may differ across different areas of the tumour, and the result should be interpreted alongside other clinical and pathological findings.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Because MYCN amplification is determined by the genetic characteristics of the tumour itself, lifestyle changes do not alter the test result. The following guidance applies after results are received:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with the paediatric oncologist without delay.
- Seek prompt medical attention if any new or worsening symptoms appear between appointments.
- Maintain open communication with the care team about the child's overall wellbeing and any changes in condition.
Lupin Diagnostics N-Myc Oncogene Test Price
The N-myc oncogene test cost starts at ₹9,600 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires tumour tissue collected via biopsy and must be performed in a clinical or hospital setting. Home collection is not available for this test. The table below shows indicative prices:
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 9600 |
| CHENNAI | 9600 |
| HYDERABAD | 9600 |
| KOLKATA | 9600 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 9600 |
| PUNE | 9600 |
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 for N-myc oncogene test online booking:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time to submit the prepared FFPE tissue block.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 8 days of sample submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
The N-myc oncogene test is used to detect MYCN gene amplification in tumour cells. The result helps doctors classify the neuroblastoma patient into a risk group and decide the most appropriate course of treatment.
The test requires a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block obtained through a surgical biopsy. In some cases where the cancer has spread, a bone marrow aspirate may be used.
Amplification indicates that the MYCN gene is present in a much higher number of copies than normal. This is associated with more aggressive tumour behaviour and is used to classify the patient as high-risk. Your oncologist will explain what this means for the treatment plan.
Neuroblastoma almost always develops before the age of 5, so this test is primarily performed on young children. However, MYCN amplification is also relevant in certain adult cancers, including small-cell lung cancer and prostate cancer, where the test may occasionally be ordered.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is delivered within 8 days of the sample reaching the laboratory. The test results are delivered directly via email or WhatsApp once they are ready.
MYCN amplification status is typically assessed at the time of diagnosis for risk stratification and treatment planning. It is not routinely repeated as a monitoring test during or after treatment. Your oncologist will advise if further testing is needed.
No, N-myc oncogene test home collection is not available. This test requires tumour tissue obtained through a biopsy, which must be performed in a hospital or clinical setting by trained medical professionals. Home collection is not available for this test.
N-Myc Oncogene Test: Booking, Price, and Results
