PML/RARA: t(15; 17) Quantitative Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About PML/RARA: t(15;17) Quantitative Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | PML-RARA quantitative PCR, t(15; 17) quantitative test, APL molecular test, promyelocytic leukaemia/retinoic acid receptor alpha quantitative test |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate or peripheral blood in EDTA (lavender top) tube |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 4 days |
| Recommended For | Males and females; most commonly middle-aged adults, though any age may be affected |
| Price | Starting at ₹6,200 |
What Is a PML/RARA: t(15;17) Quantitative Test?
The PML/RARA: t quantitative test detects and measures an abnormal genetic fusion between the PML gene on chromosome 15 and the RARA gene on chromosome 17. This fusion, known as the t(15;17) translocation, is closely linked to a specific type of blood cancer called acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL). The test is used at diagnosis to confirm APL and again during and after treatment to track how well the body is responding. Samples are collected as peripheral blood or bone marrow, depending on the clinical situation.
What Does a PML/RARA: t(15;17) Quantitative Test Measure?
This test uses real-time PCR technology to identify and quantify the PML-RARA fusion gene transcript in a patient's sample. The following components are analysed:
| Component | What It Tells Us |
|---|---|
| PML-RARA fusion transcript | Detects the abnormal gene fusion that is characteristic of APL |
| Breakpoint variant (bcr1, bcr2, or bcr3) | Identifies which of the three possible fusion types is present (long, variable, or short) |
| PML-RARA/ABL1 normalised ratio | Expresses the level of the fusion transcript as a percentage relative to a control gene, showing how much abnormal genetic material is present |
Why Is a PML/RARA: t(15;17) Quantitative Test Done?
Doctors prescribe the t(15; 17) quantitative test both to confirm a suspected diagnosis of APL and to keep track of the disease over time. It plays a key role in guiding treatment decisions.
Common Symptoms
A doctor may request this test when a patient presents with the following symptoms:
- Persistent and unexplained fatigue
- Pale skin (pallor) without an obvious cause
- Frequent or unusual infections
- Easy bruising or excessive bleeding
- Bone or joint pain
- Fever without a clear source
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite may indicate underlying health issues.
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test is ordered to investigate or monitor the following conditions:
- Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL), where the t(15;17) translocation is found in up to 98% of cases
- Minimal residual disease (MRD), meaning very small numbers of remaining cancer cells that persist after treatment
- Early signs of disease recurrence, as a rise in transcript levels over time may signal an approaching relapse
PML/RARA: t(15; 17) Quantitative Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
Once APL is diagnosed, this test is used regularly to monitor the response to treatment. Doctors typically order it every three months during the first year following therapy, every six months during the second year, and annually from the third to fifth year. A one to two log rise in the normal transcript level over three to six months may indicate that the disease is returning, allowing early action to be taken.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for the promyelocytic leukaemia/retinoic acid receptor alpha quantitative test. The section below explains what to expect before, during, and after sample collection.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required. You may eat and drink as normal before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
The following points will help ensure the sample is suitable for testing:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as it is required for the test.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking.
- If this test is being used to monitor your condition after treatment, confirm with your doctor that it was also performed at the time of diagnosis, as an initial baseline result is needed for comparison.
- Wear comfortable clothing with easy access to your arm for a blood draw.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Peripheral Blood Collection:
- A healthcare professional cleans the skin over a vein in your arm.
- A small needle is used to draw approximately 3 ml of blood into a lavender-top EDTA tube.
- The tube is gently inverted several times to mix the blood with the anticoagulant.
- The sample is labelled and stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius for transport.
Bone Marrow Collection:
- A doctor numbs the skin and underlying tissue over the bone, usually the hipbone.
- A specialised needle is used to draw approximately 3 ml of liquid marrow through an aspiration procedure into a sodium heparin (green-top) tube.
- The tube is gently inverted to mix the sample.
- The sample is labelled, stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, and dispatched to the molecular laboratory promptly.
In the laboratory, RNA is extracted from the sample, converted to complementary DNA, and analysed using quantitative real-time PCR.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Delay in transporting the sample to the laboratory (samples must arrive within 48 hours of collection, as RNA degrades quickly)
- Improper storage or a break in the cold chain during transport
- Use of anticoagulants other than EDTA for blood samples (heparinised blood is not acceptable)
- Severely haemolysed or clotted specimens, which will be rejected
- Low cell content or poor sample quality
Understanding Your PML/RARA: t(15; 17) Quantitative Test Results
After the results of a PML-RARA quantitative test, one should always consult a qualified haematologist or oncologist alongside your full clinical picture.
| Parameter | Expected Finding | What It May Suggest |
|---|---|---|
| PML-RARA fusion transcript | Not detected (negative) | APL is unlikely, though other leukaemia types cannot be ruled out |
| PML-RARA/ABL1 ratio (if positive) | Reported as a percentage | Higher values indicate a greater level of abnormal transcript |
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
Some situations can affect how results are interpreted: A negative result does not completely exclude APL if transcript levels fall below the detection threshold of this assay or if the rearrangement occurs outside the three analysed breakpoint regions. In such cases, a FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridisation) test may be recommended. Additionally, this assay detects only PML-RARA RNA and will not identify less common RARA fusion genes associated with rare variants of APL.
Points to remember after your test
The following general points apply to patients managing an APL diagnosis:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and molecular monitoring tests as advised by your haematologist.
- Report any new or returning symptoms, such as unusual bleeding, bruising, or infections, to your doctor without delay.
- Follow the treatment and monitoring plan your specialist has outlined, as consistent monitoring is key to catching any changes early.
Lupin Diagnostics PML/RARA: t(15; 17) Quantitative Test Price
The PML/RARA:t quantitative test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹6,200. This is a super-specialised molecular test that requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price ( ₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 6200 |
| CHENNAI | 6200 |
| HYDERABAD | 6200 |
| KOLKATA | 6200 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 6200 |
| PUNE | 6200 |
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 PML/RARA:t quantitative 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.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
This test is used to detect the abnormal PML-RARA gene fusion associated with acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL). It helps confirm the diagnosis, guides treatment planning, and monitors how well the disease responds to therapy over time.
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. No special dietary preparation is needed for this test.
Either peripheral blood or bone marrow aspirate is collected, depending on what your doctor recommends. Both samples are collected in EDTA (lavender-top) tubes. Your haematologist will decide which sample type is most appropriate for your situation.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the PML-RARA quantitative test report is delivered within 4 days. Turnaround times may vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances of the sample.
Monitoring frequency depends on your treatment stage and risk category. As a general guide, testing is typically carried out every three months during the first year, every six months in the second year, and annually from the third to fifth year. Your doctor will set the most appropriate schedule for you.
No. This test specifically identifies the PML-RARA fusion gene associated with APL. A negative result does not rule out other forms of leukaemia. If other types are suspected, additional tests will be required.
Clinical history helps the laboratory and your doctor interpret the result accurately. For example, knowing whether a first-time diagnosis or a monitoring test after treatment changes how the result is understood and acted upon. Bring your previous reports or medical records when you come for sample collection.
PML/RARA: t(15; 17) Quantitative Test: Booking, Price, and Results
