NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA]
About NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA]
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Thyroid Molecular Profile Test, Targeted Thyroid NGS Panel, Multi-gene Thyroid DNA Panel, Thyroid Cancer Gene Panel |
| Sample Type | FFPE (formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded) tissue block |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 30 days |
| Recommended For | Adults with thyroid nodules, particularly those with indeterminate cytology results; more common in women |
| Price | Starting at ₹14,400 |
What Is an NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA]?
The Targeted Thyroid NGS Panel is a specialised genetic test that analyses DNA from thyroid tissue to detect specific gene mutations. It uses next-generation sequencing (NGS), a technology that reads DNA at a molecular level to identify changes linked to thyroid cancer. Doctors typically order this test for patients who have a thyroid nodule with an unclear or indeterminate result on a standard biopsy. It is also known as the Thyroid Molecular Profile Test or Multi-gene Thyroid DNA Panel.
What Does an NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA] Measure?
This panel examines three key genes in the DNA extracted from thyroid tissue. Each gene plays a role in how thyroid cells grow and divide. The three genes assessed are listed below.
| Gene | What Is Analysed | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| BRAF (V600E mutation) | Point mutation in the BRAF gene | The most common gene change in papillary thyroid cancer; found in approximately 45% of cases |
| RAS (NRAS, HRAS, KRAS) | Point mutations across three RAS gene variants | Drives abnormal cell signalling pathways that promote tumour growth |
| TERT promoter (C228T, C250T) | Mutations in the TERT promoter region | Found in 10 to 40% of thyroid carcinomas; associated with more aggressive disease and reduced survival |
Results are reported as either "Detected" (mutation present) or "Not Detected" (mutation absent).
Why Is an NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA] Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor needs more information about a thyroid nodule than a standard biopsy or imaging can provide. It helps clarify the risk of malignancy before a treatment decision is made.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may recommend this test after initial investigations reveal a suspicious thyroid nodule. The following symptoms often lead to further evaluation.
- A firm, slowly growing lump in the front lower part of the neck
- Persistent hoarseness or a change in voice
- A sore throat that does not resolve
- Difficulty swallowing food or liquids
- Discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the front of the neck
- Difficulty breathing in some cases
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The Multi-gene Thyroid DNA Panel supports the diagnosis and risk classification of several thyroid conditions. These include the following.
- Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), the most common type of thyroid cancer
- Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC)
- Poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma
- Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form
- High-grade differentiated thyroid carcinoma
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. The sample is collected by a trained clinician, not at a standard blood collection counter.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before this test. Dietary habits do not affect the quality of the tissue sample collected.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
A few steps will help ensure the sample is collected and processed correctly. Keep the following 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 before the procedure
- Follow any specific sample preservation instructions given by the collection centre
- Ensure your doctor confirms that an adequate tissue sample can be obtained, as poor-quality or insufficient samples may affect the test
Step-by-Step Procedure
The sample for this test is collected as an FFPE tissue block. Here is what the process typically involves.
- A trained clinician performs an ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy on the thyroid nodule, or tissue is obtained during a surgical procedure.
- The tissue sample is fixed and preserved in a formalin solution, then embedded in paraffin wax to create an FFPE block.
- The FFPE block is labelled and packaged securely for transport at ambient temperature (18 to 28 degrees Celsius).
- The sample is dispatched to the Lupin Diagnostics molecular laboratory, where trained scientists extract DNA from the tissue.
- The extracted DNA is analysed using next-generation sequencing technology to detect mutations in the BRAF, RAS, and TERT genes.
- A detailed report is prepared and delivered within 30 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Certain factors may limit the reliability of results. Being aware of these helps set appropriate expectations.
- Tumour heterogeneity, meaning genetic differences within the same nodule, can reduce detection accuracy
- An insufficient quantity of tissue in the sample may lead to inconclusive results
- Sample contamination during collection or handling
- Poor preservation of the FFPE block or samples older than three years
- Technical issues during the fine-needle aspiration procedure itself
Understanding Your NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA] Results
Results from this panel are qualitative, meaning each gene is reported as either detected or not detected. Your doctor will interpret these findings alongside your clinical history, imaging results, and cytology report.
| Parameter | Expected Result | Interpretation if Detected |
|---|---|---|
| BRAF V600E mutation | Not Detected | Strongly associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma; indicates higher malignancy risk |
| RAS mutations (NRAS, HRAS, KRAS) | Not Detected | Associated with follicular-patterned thyroid tumours; intermediate to high malignancy risk |
| TERT promoter mutations (C228T, C250T) | Not Detected | Linked to aggressive disease, tumour recurrence, and reduced survival, particularly when combined with BRAF or RAS mutations |
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
The quality of the tissue sample can directly influence results. Samples with very low tumour cell content may yield false-negative findings. FFPE blocks that are more than three years old may show degraded DNA, which can reduce sequencing success rates. If a result is inconclusive, your doctor may recommend repeat sampling.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While gene mutations cannot be prevented, certain habits support overall thyroid health.
- Attend regular thyroid check-ups if you have risk factors such as a family history of thyroid cancer or prior radiation exposure to the head or neck
- Maintain a balanced diet with adequate iodine intake to support normal thyroid function
- Discuss any concerns about neck lumps or voice changes with a doctor promptly rather than waiting
Lupin Diagnostics NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA] Price
The NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel is priced starting at ₹14,400 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or a procedure performed by a trained clinician. Home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 14400 |
| CHENNAI | 14400 |
| HYDERABAD | 14400 |
| KOLKATA | 14400 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 14400 |
| PUNE | 14400 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the Targeted Thyroid NGS Panel on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection by a trained clinician.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time of 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a molecular genetic test that uses next-generation sequencing to detect mutations in three specific genes — BRAF, RAS, and TERT — from thyroid tissue. The results help doctors assess the risk of malignancy in a thyroid nodule and guide treatment decisions.
This test is most useful for patients who have a thyroid nodule with an indeterminate cytology result, meaning a standard biopsy was not conclusive. It is also relevant for patients with nodules classified under Bethesda categories III, IV, or V, where additional molecular information can clarify the diagnosis.
Detection of the BRAF V600E mutation is strongly associated with papillary thyroid carcinoma. It suggests a higher probability of malignancy and may influence the extent of surgery your doctor recommends. Your specialist will discuss the implications based on your full clinical picture.
When BRAF V600E and TERT promoter mutations are found together, this combination is associated with more aggressive tumour behaviour, a higher rate of recurrence, and reduced survival compared to either mutation alone. Your doctor will use this information alongside other findings to plan your care.
No. A fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy remains the primary method for evaluating thyroid nodules. The Thyroid Molecular Profile Test is performed on tissue already obtained from an FNA or surgical biopsy. It supplements, rather than replaces, the standard cytological assessment.
Results are typically available within 30 days of sample receipt at the laboratory. The analysis involves detailed DNA extraction and next-generation sequencing, which requires more processing time than routine blood tests.
No. A negative result — meaning no mutations were detected — suggests a lower risk of malignancy and carries a high negative predictive value. However, it does not completely rule out cancer. Your doctor will consider this result alongside your imaging, clinical symptoms, and biopsy findings before making any decisions.
NGS Mini Thyroid Cancer Panel [3DNA]
