PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | PIK3CA Mutation Analysis, PIK3CA Gene Test, PIK3CA Biomarker Test, PI3K Mutation Test |
| Sample Type | FFPE tissue block (formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumour tissue) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 7 days |
| Recommended For | Adults diagnosed with breast cancer or other solid tumours; males and females |
| Price | Starting at ₹14,400 |
What is a PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test?
The PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test checks for specific changes (mutations) in the PIK3CA gene within tumour tissue. This gene provides instructions for making a protein that controls how cells grow and divide. When mutations occur in this gene, they can drive abnormal cell growth in certain cancers. The test is typically ordered by an oncologist after a cancer diagnosis to guide treatment decisions. It uses a preserved tumour tissue sample known as an FFPE tissue block.
What Does a PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test Measure?
This test identifies whether specific activating mutations are present in key regions of the PIK3CA gene. The following mutations are assessed:
| Region | Mutations Detected |
|---|---|
| Exon 7 | C420R |
| Exon 9 | E542K, E545A, E545D, E545G, E545K, Q546E, Q546R |
| Exon 20 | H1047L, H1047R, H1047Y |
These four hotspot mutations (E542K, E545K, H1047R, and H1047L) account for the large majority of all PIK3CA mutations seen in human cancers. The result is reported as either "wild-type" (no mutation found) or "mutant" (a specific mutation identified).
Why is a PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test Done?
This test is not ordered based on symptoms alone. It is used after a cancer diagnosis has already been established to determine the best course of treatment.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The symptoms below may prompt initial cancer investigations, after which this test may be ordered:
- An unexplained lump or mass in the breast or elsewhere
- Persistent, unexplained fatigue
- Unintentional weight loss
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or chronic pelvic pain
- Changes in breast tissue, such as skin dimpling or nipple changes
- Blood in the stool
- Chronic anaemia
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
A doctor may request this test when evaluating or managing any of the following:
- Hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative (HR+/HER2−) advanced breast cancer, where a mutation may indicate eligibility for targeted PI3K inhibitor therapy
- Colorectal cancer and non-small cell lung cancer, where PIK3CA mutations play a role in disease progression
- Endometrial cancer, in which PIK3CA mutations are found in a significant proportion of cases
- Ovarian cancer, including ovarian clear cell carcinoma
- PIK3CA-related overgrowth spectrum (PROS), a group of rare conditions in which parts of the body overgrow due to PIK3CA mutations
PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
This test can also be used to track how a tumour responds to treatment over time. In metastatic breast cancer, mutation status may be re-evaluated as the disease progresses or treatment changes. Monitoring PIK3CA mutations helps oncologists adjust treatment strategies when needed.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed before this test. The key requirement is that an adequate tumour tissue sample is available.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for the PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test. There are no dietary restrictions before providing your sample.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind before submitting your sample:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are currently taking
- Provide any previous pathology reports along with your FFPE tissue block
- The tissue sample must contain at least 20% tumour cells for accurate results; your pathologist will assess this before testing begins
- If tissue is insufficient, your doctor may discuss an alternative approach
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what the testing process involves:
- Your surgeon or treating doctor arranges for a tumour tissue biopsy, which is then preserved in a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block.
- The FFPE block is submitted to the laboratory along with your clinical history and any relevant pathology reports.
- A pathologist examines the tissue under a microscope to identify and mark areas containing invasive tumour cells.
- DNA is extracted from the tumour tissue in the block for analysis.
- The laboratory analyses the DNA using Real Time PCR (a method that copies and detects specific DNA sequences) to look for PIK3CA mutations in Exons 7, 9, and 20.
- Results are prepared and delivered within 7 days of sample receipt at the laboratory.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence the reliability of your result:
- Low tumour content in the tissue sample (below 20% tumour cells)
- Poor tissue fixation or improper handling of the FFPE block
- Degradation of older paraffin blocks (particularly those more than five years old)
- Tumour heterogeneity, where different parts of the same tumour carry different mutations
- Rare genetic variations in the sample that could affect detection
Understanding Your PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test Results
Results from this test are qualitative, meaning they indicate whether a mutation is present or absent. Your oncologist will review these results alongside your full tumour profile, staging, and clinical picture.
| Result | Description | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Wild-type (No mutation detected) | No PIK3CA mutations found in the regions tested | No targetable PIK3CA alteration identified in this sample |
| Mutant (Mutation detected) | A specific PIK3CA mutation was identified | Mutation present; may indicate eligibility for targeted therapy |
Disclaimer: 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
Rare genetic variations (polymorphisms) in the sample may occasionally lead to false-negative or false-positive findings. A negative result does not completely rule out a mutation that may be present below the test's detection limit.
Additionally, PIK3CA mutation status in the primary tumour may differ from that in a secondary tumour site (metastasis), so both sites may require separate testing in some cases.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
This test detects a genetic change and is not a general wellness marker. The following guidance applies during and after cancer care:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your oncologist for treatment monitoring
- Discuss your complete tumour profile, including PIK3CA status, with your healthcare team before making any treatment decisions
- Ask your doctor whether repeat testing is appropriate if your cancer progresses or your treatment plan changes
Lupin Diagnostics PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test Price
The PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹14,400. The PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test is available for booking online, with sample logistics arranged through Lupin Diagnostics.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 14400 |
| CHENNAI | 14400 |
| HYDERABAD | 14400 |
| KOLKATA | 14400 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 14400 |
| PUNE | 14400 |
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 to book your PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test online:
- Select the PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The PIK3CA gene instructs the body to make a protein that controls cell growth and survival. When mutations occur in this gene, they can cause uncontrolled cell division, contributing to certain cancers. Testing helps identify patients who may benefit from treatments that specifically target PIK3CA-driven tumour activity.
This test is primarily recommended for patients with hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative (HR+/HER2−) advanced or metastatic breast cancer. It is also used in the evaluation of other solid tumours, including colorectal, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. Your oncologist will advise whether this test is appropriate for your situation.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test procedure uses an FFPE tissue block, which is a piece of tumour tissue preserved in a paraffin wax block. This sample is typically obtained from a previous biopsy or surgical procedure. Your treating doctor will arrange for the block to be submitted along with your clinical history.
No fasting is required. There are no dietary restrictions before providing your sample. Simply ensure that your FFPE tissue block and any supporting medical records are available at the time of submission.
The PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test report is delivered within 7 days of the laboratory receiving and accepting the sample.
A positive result means a specific PIK3CA mutation was identified in the tumour tissue. This may indicate that the patient is eligible for targeted therapy, such as PI3K inhibitor treatment in HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer. Your oncologist will explain what the result means for your specific treatment plan.
Yes, the PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test online booking is available through the Lupin Diagnostics website. You can choose your city, schedule a convenient time, and visit the centre to arrange for your FFPE tissue block to be collected. Reports are delivered digitally once ready.
PIK3CA Gene Mutation Test: Booking, Price, and Results
