nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | N-MYC Amplification by FISH Test, MYCN FISH Test, nMYC Oncogene Amplification Test, N-MYC Gene Amplification Test, MYCN Neuroblastoma Test |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow and peripheral blood |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 8 days |
| Recommended For | Children (primarily under 5 years); adolescents and adults with suspected MYCN-related tumours |
| Price | Starting at ₹8,400 |
What is a nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test?
The nMYC gene amplification by FISH test is a specialised molecular diagnostic test used to detect extra copies of the N-MYC gene (also called MYCN) in cancer cells. FISH stands for Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation, a technique that uses fluorescent probes to identify specific gene sequences under a microscope. The test is most commonly ordered for children diagnosed with or suspected to have neuroblastoma. A bone marrow aspirate or peripheral blood sample is used for analysis. This test is also known as the the N-MYC amplification by FISH test, MYCN FISH test, nMYC oncogene amplification test, N-MYC gene amplification test, or MYCN neuroblastoma test.
What Does a nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test Measure?
The nMYC gene amplification by FISH test examines the number of copies of the MYCN gene present in tumour cells and compares this to the normal expected number. Here is what the test analyses:
| Component | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| MYCN gene copy number | Counts the number of N-MYC gene copies per cell; normally two copies are present |
| MYCN to Chromosome 2 ratio | Compares MYCN signal count to chromosome 2 centromere signals to determine amplification level |
| Amplification status | Classifies the result as non-amplified, low-level amplification, or high-level amplification |
In a normal cell, two fluorescent signals are seen, representing the two expected copies of the MYCN gene. When amplification is present, multiple additional signals appear under a fluorescence microscope, indicating extra gene copies.
Why is a nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor needs to assess the genetic profile of a tumour, particularly to guide risk classification and treatment decisions.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may request this test when a child presents with symptoms suggestive of neuroblastoma or a related tumour. These symptoms include:
- A swollen or hard abdomen
- Unexplained bone pain
- Visible lumps in the neck or around the eye
- Persistent tiredness and pale skin
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Fever without a clear cause
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test is used in the diagnosis and risk assessment of several cancers, including:
- Neuroblastoma (the most common cancer for which this test is used)
- Medulloblastoma (a brain tumour)
- Rhabdomyosarcoma (a soft tissue cancer)
- Wilms tumour (a kidney cancer in children)
- Retinoblastoma (an eye cancer)
- MYCN-amplified spinal ependymoma
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test, but there are important practical steps to take beforehand. Here is what you need to know before the appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before this test. You can eat and drink normally before your sample is collected. However, if your doctor has ordered additional tests, fasting may be required for those specific tests. Always follow the instructions given by your doctor or the diagnostic centre at the time of booking.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Being well prepared helps ensure the sample is suitable for analysis. Keep the following in mind:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including symptoms, previous test results, and imaging reports, as this is required for the test
- Inform the laboratory of any prior chemotherapy or radiation treatment the patient has received
- Ensure the treating doctor has communicated relevant clinical details to the collecting centre
Step-by-Step Procedure
The nMYC gene amplification by FISH test procedure involves two sample types: bone marrow and peripheral blood. Here is how each is collected and processed:
- For a bone marrow sample, a doctor performs a bone marrow aspiration, usually from the posterior iliac crest (hip bone), under local or general anaesthesia, and withdraws a small volume of bone marrow fluid using a sterile needle.
- The collected bone marrow material is immediately placed into sterile containers or prepared onto slides as required and carefully labelled with patient identification details.
- For a peripheral blood sample, a trained phlebotomist cleans the skin over a suitable vein in the arm with an antiseptic solution and draws blood using a sterile needle.
- The collected blood is transferred into a designated collection tube, gently mixed if required, and labelled accurately with patient details and time of collection.
- Both samples are stored under appropriate conditions (bone marrow refrigerated; peripheral blood maintained at 2–8°C) and promptly dispatched to the laboratory for further testing.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Certain factors may influence the reliability of results. These include:
- A low proportion of tumour cells in the sample
- Poor tissue fixation or handling during transport
- Prior chemotherapy altering tumour cell characteristics
- Inadequate hybridisation during laboratory processing
Understanding Your nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test Results
Results of the nMYC gene amplification by FISH test must be reviewed by an oncologist or pathologist who can interpret them in the context of the patient's full clinical picture. The table below shows the general reference categories used:
| Category | MYCN Signal Ratio | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Non-amplified (normal) | Less than 4-fold increase | No MYCN amplification detected |
| Low-level amplification | 5 to 10-fold increase | Moderate increase in MYCN copies |
| High-level amplification | Greater than 10-fold increase | Significant amplification; associated with high-risk disease |
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 MYCN gene status is a fixed genetic characteristic of the tumour and cannot be changed through lifestyle choices. The following steps support overall care:
- Follow all treatment and follow-up recommendations made by the oncology team
- Attend all scheduled clinic visits and do not miss re-evaluation appointments
- Consider seeking genetic counselling to fully understand what the result means for treatment planning
Lupin Diagnostics nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test Price
The nMYC gene amplification by FISH test cost starts at ₹8,400 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a hospital, as home collection is not available for this specialised test. The table below shows indicative prices across cities:
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 8400 |
| CHENNAI | 8400 |
| HYDERABAD | 8400 |
| KOLKATA | 8400 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 8400 |
| PUNE | 8400 |
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 nMYC gene amplification by FISH 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 for sample collection by a trained professional.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The nMYC gene amplification by FISH test uses fluorescent probes to count the number of copies of the N-MYC gene in cancer cells. It helps determine whether this gene is amplified (present in abnormally high numbers), which has significant implications for cancer risk classification. The test is most commonly used in neuroblastoma diagnosis.
This test is primarily recommended for children with confirmed or suspected neuroblastoma. It may also be ordered for patients with medulloblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, or other cancers where MYCN amplification is known to occur. The treating paediatric oncologist will advise whether this test is needed.
FISH is considered a highly sensitive method for detecting MYCN amplification. Studies have shown it can identify more positive cases than older methods such as Southern blotting. Accuracy depends on sample quality, the proportion of tumour cells present, and proper handling and fixation of the specimen.
No, nMYC gene amplification by FISH test home collection is not available. This test requires bone marrow aspiration or a blood draw performed by trained medical personnel in a clinical setting. Home collection is not available for this test.
An amplified result means that extra copies of the MYCN gene are present in the tumour cells. This is associated with a more aggressive form of neuroblastoma and a higher risk classification. The treating oncologist will explain what this means for the specific patient and outline the next steps in management.
No. While neuroblastoma is the most common condition associated with MYCN amplification, it is also found in medulloblastoma, alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, Wilms tumour, retinoblastoma, and in some adult cancers such as small-cell lung cancer and prostate cancer.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report for the nMYC gene amplification by FISH test is delivered within 8 days of sample collection. The results are delivered directly through email or WhatsApp.
nMYC Gene Amplification by FISH Test: Booking, Price, and Results
