OncoIndex LBX Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About OncoIndex LBX Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | OncoIndex Liquid Biopsy, LBX Test, Circulating Tumour DNA (ctDNA) Test, Cell-Free DNA Test |
| Sample Type | Whole blood (K2 EDTA tube) and PAXgene tubes |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 25 days |
| Recommended For | Adults with known or suspected cancer; both genders |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,55,000 |
What is an OncoIndex LBX Test?
The OncoIndex LBX test is a specialised blood-based cancer test that detects tumour-derived genetic material circulating in the bloodstream. It is also known as the OncoIndex liquid biopsy or LBX test. Doctors order this test to detect cancer-related genetic mutations, monitor treatment response, and check for disease recurrence. The test requires two sample types: whole blood and PAXgene tube samples, both collected via a standard blood draw.
What Does an OncoIndex LBX Test Measure?
The OncoIndex LBX test procedure analyses several types of cancer-related material found in blood. Here is a brief overview of each component measured:
| Component | What it is |
|---|---|
| Circulating Tumour DNA (ctDNA) | DNA fragments released by tumour cells into the bloodstream, carrying the same mutations as the original tumour |
| Circulating Tumour Cells (CTCs) | Whole cancer cells that have shed from a tumour and entered the blood |
| Cell-Free DNA (cfDNA) | Small DNA fragments released by both normal and abnormal cells into the blood |
| Genetic Mutations and Biomarkers | Specific gene changes, such as EGFR, KRAS, and BRAF, that guide targeted cancer treatment decisions |
Why is an OncoIndex LBX Test Done?
This test is ordered for a range of situations related to cancer diagnosis and management. Below are the most common reasons a doctor may recommend it.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may prescribe the OncoIndex LBX test when a patient presents with any of the following symptoms:
- Unexplained or rapid weight loss
- Persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest
- A new or growing lump anywhere in the body
- Unexplained bleeding or unusual discharge
- Persistent pain without a clear cause
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Difficulty swallowing
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The OncoIndex liquid biopsy can assist in identifying or monitoring several types of cancer. These include:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly for EGFR mutation detection
- Metastatic breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer, including KRAS and BRAF mutations
- Melanoma
- Pancreatic cancer
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer)
- Minimal residual disease (trace cancer remaining after treatment)
OncoIndex LBX Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
The OncoIndex LBX test is particularly useful for ongoing cancer management. Serial testing can track how well a treatment is working, detect early signs of relapse, and identify new resistance mutations. Depending on the treatment phase, the test may be repeated every few weeks during active therapy or every few months during post-treatment surveillance.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is required for this test. The steps below will help you feel ready on the day of collection.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required for the OncoIndex LBX test. You may eat and drink as normal before sample collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Here are a few things to keep 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 the technician about any medications, supplements, or chemotherapy drugs you are currently taking, as these can influence results
- Stay well hydrated on the day of collection
- Wear clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up easily
- Ensure your oncologist is aware of any recent treatments or procedures before the sample is collected
Step-by-Step Procedure
The OncoIndex LBX test procedure involves the collection of two blood samples. Here is what to expect:
- A trained phlebotomist will clean the skin on the inside of your elbow with an antiseptic wipe.
- A needle is gently inserted into a vein to draw blood. One sample is collected in a standard K2 EDTA (lavender cap) tube, and a second sample is collected in PAXgene tubes.
- Both tubes are labelled carefully with your details and packed securely for transport.
- The samples are stored under refrigerated conditions (2 to 8 degrees Celsius) and dispatched to the laboratory.
- In the laboratory, cell-free DNA is extracted and prepared for next-generation sequencing (NGS), a method that reads the genetic code of the circulating tumour material in detail.
- The analysed results are compiled into a report and delivered within 25 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence the accuracy of the test results:
- Early-stage tumours with a small size may produce very low levels of ctDNA, which can fall below the test's detection threshold
- Sample handling, storage temperature, and the time between collection and processing
- Ongoing chemotherapy or targeted therapy, which can alter the genetic make-up of circulating tumour material
- A condition called clonal haematopoiesis, where benign mutations in blood cells may resemble tumour signals
- The specific cancer type and its anatomical location
Understanding Your OncoIndex LBX Test Results
Results from the OncoIndex LBX test require careful interpretation by a qualified oncologist alongside imaging findings, tissue biopsy reports, and clinical history. The table below provides general reference values.
| Parameter | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ctDNA Detection | Not detected (Negative) | Absence of tumour-specific mutations in blood |
| ctDNA Tumour Fraction | Less than 1% | Values at or above 1% are considered high tumour fraction |
| Circulating Tumour Cells | 0 to 5 cells per 7.5 mL blood | Higher counts may be associated with disease progression |
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
Certain factors can make results harder to interpret. Your oncologist will consider these when reviewing your report:
- Early-stage cancers often produce very little ctDNA, which means results may appear negative even when cancer is present. Tumour size, histological subtype, and cell turnover rate all play a role in how much ctDNA enters the blood.
- Ongoing cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and targeted drugs, can change the genetic profile of tumour cells over time. This means results may look different across serial tests even when the overall treatment is working.
- Pre-analytical factors, such as delays in sample processing or improper storage, can degrade cfDNA and affect the reliability of results.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While ctDNA levels are determined by disease status rather than lifestyle alone, the following general wellness habits support overall health during cancer care:
- Follow the surveillance schedule recommended by your oncologist and attend all follow-up appointments
- Maintain balanced nutrition and engage in light to moderate physical activity as advised by your care team
- Report any new or changing symptoms to your doctor promptly between scheduled tests
Lupin Diagnostics OncoIndex LBX Test Price
The OncoIndex LBX test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,55,000. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 155000 |
| CHENNAI | 155000 |
| HYDERABAD | 155000 |
| KOLKATA | 155000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 155000 |
| PUNE | 155000 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Booking the OncoIndex LBX test online at Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward:
- Select the OncoIndex LBX test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 25 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The OncoIndex LBX test is a blood-based liquid biopsy that detects tumour-derived genetic material, including ctDNA and circulating tumour cells, without the need for surgical tissue removal. It is used to detect cancer, guide treatment decisions, and monitor disease progression.
A traditional tissue biopsy requires a surgical procedure to remove a sample from the tumour itself. The OncoIndex liquid biopsy requires only a standard blood draw, making it far less invasive. It also allows for repeat testing to monitor how cancer is changing over time.
Results for the OncoIndex LBX test are delivered within 25 days. This longer turnaround reflects the complexity of next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis required to read the genetic profile of circulating tumour material.
The test has shown potential for early cancer detection. However, early-stage tumours produce very small amounts of ctDNA, which can sometimes fall below the detection limit. A negative result does not always rule out the presence of cancer, and your doctor will consider this alongside other tests.
The OncoIndex LBX test can help detect and monitor several cancers, including lung, colorectal, breast, prostate, melanoma, and pancreatic cancers. It is also used to identify specific mutations such as EGFR, KRAS, and BRAF that guide targeted therapies.
The test involves a standard blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to any routine blood test. Most people experience only mild, brief discomfort at the needle site. No surgery or special anaesthesia is required.
The OncoIndex LBX test is a valuable addition to cancer diagnosis and monitoring, but it does not replace tissue biopsy in all situations. Certain diagnoses, particularly those requiring confirmation of cancer type and origin, still require a tissue sample. Your oncologist will advise on whether both tests are needed.
OncoIndex LBX Test: Booking, Price, and Results
