Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test
About Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Neuroblastoma MLPA Test, NB MLPA Panel, Neuroblastoma Genetic Panel, MYCN Amplification MLPA Test |
| Sample Type | FFPE tissue block (formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumour tissue) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 15 days |
| Recommended For | Infants and children (primarily under 5 years) diagnosed with or suspected of having neuroblastoma |
| Price | Starting at ₹33,600 |
What Is a Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test?
The neuroblastoma panel by MLPA test is a specialised genetic test that examines tumour tissue for specific chromosomal changes linked to neuroblastoma, a type of cancer arising from nerve tissue. MLPA stands for multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, a method that detects abnormal gene copy numbers across multiple chromosomal regions at once. Doctors use the results to classify the aggressiveness of the tumour and plan the most appropriate treatment. The test is also referred to as the neuroblastoma MLPA test, NB MLPA panel, neuroblastoma genetic panel, or MYCN amplification MLPA test. The sample used is a preserved tumour tissue block (FFPE tissue).
What Does a Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test Measure?
This test analyses specific chromosomal regions and gene copy numbers in the tumour sample. Each finding helps classify the tumour into a risk category. The parameters examined include the following:
| Parameter | What It Detects |
|---|---|
| MYCN gene copy number | Whether extra copies of the MYCN gene are present (amplification), indicating aggressive tumour behaviour |
| 1p chromosome region | Whether genetic material on chromosome arm 1p is missing (deletion), which is linked to poorer outcomes |
| 11q chromosome region | Whether chromosome 11q shows loss or aberration, another marker of high-risk disease |
| 17q chromosome region | Whether extra chromosomal material on 17q is present and associated with aggressive neuroblastoma |
| Additional regions (1q, 3p, 4p, 7q, 9p) | Broader scan of segmental chromosomal changes relevant to risk stratification |
Why Is a Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test Done?
This test is ordered when a child has signs or findings that suggest neuroblastoma or when a diagnosis has already been confirmed and the treating team needs to classify disease risk before starting treatment.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may request this test when a child presents with any of the following symptoms:
- A swollen or enlarged abdomen, or a visible abdominal mass
- Abdominal pain or a persistent sense of fullness with poor appetite
- Unexplained fever lasting several days
- Bone pain or limping without obvious cause
- Cough or difficulty breathing (when the tumour originates in the chest)
- Fatigue and general weakness in a young child
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The neuroblastoma panel by MLPA test is used to assess the following:
- Confirmation of neuroblastoma as the extracranial solid tumour type
- Risk stratification into very low, low, intermediate, or high-risk categories for treatment planning
- Presence of MYCN amplification, which is the strongest indicator of poor prognosis
- Detection of segmental chromosomal aberrations (SCAs) that predict aggressive tumour behaviour
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Because this test uses tumour tissue collected during a biopsy or surgical procedure, there is no preparation needed from the patient or family. However, a few important steps apply before and during the process.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. There are no dietary restrictions before sample collection. Always follow specific instructions provided by your doctor.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind when preparing for this test:
- Bring a detailed clinical history including the child's symptoms, previous test results, and relevant medical records, as this is required for the test.
- Inform the laboratory and treating doctor if the child has already started chemotherapy, as this may affect DNA quality in the sample.
- Confirm with your doctor that the tumour sample contains an adequate proportion of tumour cells for reliable results.
- Ask your doctor whether a fresh tissue sample or a previously preserved FFPE block will be used, so logistics can be arranged in advance.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A specialist (paediatric surgeon or oncologist) performs a tumour biopsy or bone marrow aspirate to obtain the tissue sample, typically under anaesthesia for the child's comfort.
- The collected tissue is preserved as a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block, a standard method of storing tumour samples for genetic testing.
- The FFPE tissue block is packaged and transported to the laboratory at ambient temperature (18 to 28°C).
- In the laboratory, DNA is extracted from the tumour tissue and MLPA technique is applied.
- Results are analysed using specialised software and compared with reference samples. A report is issued within 15 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Low tumour cell content in the sample may cause false-negative findings
- Poor DNA quality due to improper sample handling or storage
- Prior chemotherapy may reduce tumour cell viability
- Rare sequence variants in probe target regions can occasionally affect readings
- Delayed or incorrect transport of the tissue block
Understanding Your Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test Results
Results from this test are reported qualitatively, meaning they indicate whether a particular chromosomal change is present or absent. A paediatric oncologist will interpret findings alongside tumour stage, histology, and the child's age at diagnosis. The table below summarises the interpretation of test results:
| Parameter | Normal Finding | Abnormal Finding |
|---|---|---|
| MYCN gene copy number | 2 copies (no amplification) | More than 10 copies indicates amplification (high-risk) |
| 1p chromosome region | No deletion | Deletion detected (poorer prognosis) |
| 11q chromosome region | No deletion or aberration | Deletion or aberration detected (poor prognosis marker) |
| 17q chromosome region | No gain | Gain detected (associated with aggressive disease) |
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 situations may affect how results are interpreted:
- A tumour cell content below 60% in the tissue sample can lead to false-negative results, where an abnormality is present but not detected.
- If chemotherapy has been administered prior to biopsy, DNA quality may be reduced, which can affect the accuracy of the MLPA analysis.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
Because this test detects genetic markers within a tumour, there are no lifestyle changes that can alter its findings. However, the following are important for the child's overall care:
- Follow the paediatric oncology team's recommended treatment and monitoring plan closely
- Attend all follow-up appointments to track treatment response and disease progression
- Ensure the child receives adequate nutritional support during treatment, as advised by the care team
Lupin Diagnostics Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test Price
The neuroblastoma panel by MLPA test cost starts at ₹33,600 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a hospital, as home sample collection is not available for this test due to the specialised nature of the sample required. The table below shows indicative prices:
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 33600 |
| CHENNAI | 33600 |
| HYDERABAD | 33600 |
| KOLKATA | 33600 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 33600 |
| PUNE | 33600 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample submission.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 15 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The neuroblastoma panel by MLPA test examines tumour tissue for chromosomal abnormalities such as MYCN amplification, 1p deletion, 11q deletion, and 17q gain. These findings help doctors classify the disease into risk groups and decide on the most appropriate treatment approach for the child.
This test is recommended for infants and children, most commonly those under 5 years of age, who have been diagnosed with or are strongly suspected of having neuroblastoma. It is not a routine or screening test; it is ordered by a paediatric oncologist after clinical and imaging evaluation.
The test uses an FFPE tissue block, which is a preserved piece of tumour tissue collected during a biopsy or surgical procedure. The tissue is fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin wax to maintain its quality for genetic analysis.
MYCN amplification means there are more than 10 copies of the MYCN gene in the tumour cells, compared to the normal 2 copies. This finding indicates high-risk neuroblastoma, where the tumour is likely to behave more aggressively. The treating doctor will use this information to plan treatment.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report for the neuroblastoma panel by MLPA test is delivered within 15 days of the sample being received. The test results are delivered directly via email or WhatsApp.
No, a neuroblastoma panel by MLPA test home sample collection is not available. The sample is an FFPE tissue block obtained during a biopsy or surgical procedure by a specialist in a hospital setting. The sample must then be submitted to the Lupin Diagnostics centre for testing.
Neuroblastoma Panel by MLPA Test
