Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test
About Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | SS18 FISH Test, SYT Gene Rearrangement Test, Synovial Sarcoma Translocation FISH Test |
| Sample Type | Tumour tissue (formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue block) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 9 days |
| Recommended For | All genders; primarily adolescents and young adults suspected of having synovial sarcoma |
| Price | Starting at ₹8,400 |
What Is a Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test?
The synovial sarcoma [SS18] test is a specialised genetic test used to detect a specific chromosomal rearrangement found in synovial sarcoma, a rare cancer that arises from connective tissue. It uses a technique called fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), which attaches fluorescent tags to chromosomal regions to identify abnormal gene changes. Doctors order it to support diagnosis when synovial sarcoma is clinically suspected. The test is performed on tumour tissue obtained through a biopsy and is also known as the SS18 FISH test, SYT gene rearrangement test or synovial sarcoma translocation FISH test.
What Does a Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test Measure?
This test examines tumour tissue at the chromosomal level to detect key genetic findings. The table below explains what this test measures:
| Parameter | What It Looks For |
|---|---|
| SS18 gene rearrangement | Detects abnormal breakage and rejoining of the SS18 gene at chromosome 18q11.2 using a dual-colour break-apart probe |
This test analyses the fluorescent signal pattern under a microscope to determine whether the SS18 gene region has separated, indicating a rearrangement.
Why Is a Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test Done?
The synovial sarcoma [SS18] test is ordered when a patient presents with clinical findings that raise suspicion of synovial sarcoma. It is used alongside imaging and tissue histopathology to reach a confirmed diagnosis.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
A doctor may recommend this test when a patient reports one or more of the following symptoms:
- A deep-seated, enlarging mass that feels hard to the touch
- Pain that develops before any visible swelling appears
- Painful swelling near a joint or soft tissue area
- Localised tenderness in the affected area
- Restricted movement in a nearby joint
- Neuropathic pain (nerve-related pain) or muscle weakness
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test supports the identification of the following conditions:
- Synovial sarcoma, a cancer arising from connective tissue with partial features of epithelial (lining) tissue
- Monophasic synovial sarcoma, composed mainly of spindle-shaped cells
- Biphasic synovial sarcoma, containing both epithelial and spindle-shaped cells
- Poorly differentiated synovial sarcoma, distinguished from other small round-cell tumours such as Ewing sarcoma and neuroblastoma
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The synovial sarcoma [SS18] test does not require fasting or special preparation. However, the quality of the tissue sample is critical to obtaining accurate results.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. The sample is tumour tissue collected through a surgical biopsy, not a blood or urine sample. However, it is essential to carefully follow any specific instructions your doctor provides for biopsy sample collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
The following points will help ensure the tissue sample is suitable for testing:
- Bring a detailed clinical history including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant family history, as this is required for the test.
- Ensure the biopsy tissue block contains sufficient tumour tissue before submitting it to the laboratory.
- Inform the laboratory if any fixative other than formalin was used to preserve the tissue, as this can affect test results.
- Avoid submitting decalcified tissue, as this is generally not suitable for FISH analysis.
- The tissue block should be stored and transported at ambient room temperature (18 to 28°C).
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A surgeon or interventional radiologist performs a biopsy to obtain a sample from the suspected tumour.
- The tissue is preserved in formalin and embedded in a paraffin block to create a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block.
- The laboratory cuts thin sections (approximately 5 microns thick) from the block and places them on positively charged glass slides.
- Fluorescent probes that specifically bind to the SS18 gene region are applied to the tissue sections.
- A specialist examines the slides under a fluorescent microscope, looking for a break-apart signal pattern that indicates a chromosomal rearrangement.
- A pathologist reviews the findings and prepares an interpretive report, which is sent to your doctor.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may affect the reliability of the test result:
- Use of fixatives other than formalin on the tissue specimen
- Insufficient tumour tissue in the submitted sample
- Prolonged storage of cut paraffin sections before analysis
- Improper storage or transport of the specimen outside the recommended temperature range
Understanding Your Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test Results
Results from this test should always be reviewed by a qualified oncologist or pathologist alongside clinical findings, imaging results, and histopathology reports. The table below shows how results are generally interpreted:
| Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Negative (no rearrangement detected) | No SS18 gene rearrangement found; does not completely rule out synovial sarcoma |
| Positive (rearrangement detected) | SS18 gene rearrangement identified; supports the diagnosis of synovial sarcoma |
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.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
This is a diagnostic oncology test, so there are no lifestyle changes that affect the SS18 gene status in tumour cells. However, the following general points apply.
- Report any new or growing soft tissue mass to a doctor promptly, as early evaluation is important.
- Tumours larger than 5 cm carry a higher risk of spread, making timely diagnosis particularly valuable.
- Follow your doctor's guidance on monitoring and follow-up after receiving results.
Lupin Diagnostics Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test Price
The synovial sarcoma [SS18] test cost starts at ₹8,400 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires tumour tissue collected through a biopsy procedure at a hospital; home collection is not available. The sample must be submitted to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or through your treating hospital. The table below shows indicative prices:
| 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
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time to submit your FFPE tissue block or coordinate sample submission with your treating hospital.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 9 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The synovial sarcoma [SS18] test detects a specific genetic rearrangement found in approximately 90% of synovial sarcoma cases. It is used to support the diagnosis when a doctor suspects synovial sarcoma based on clinical and histological findings. The result is always interpreted alongside a full pathology consultation.
The sample is tumour tissue obtained through a surgical biopsy performed at a hospital. The tissue is then processed into a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block before being sent to the laboratory. No separate blood draw or additional sample is needed.
No. A negative result means no SS18 gene rearrangement was detected, but it does not completely exclude the diagnosis. Around 10% of synovial sarcomas do not show this translocation. Your doctor may recommend further tests, such as RT-PCR or next-generation sequencing, if synovial sarcoma is still clinically suspected.
At Lupin Diagnostics, the report is typically delivered within 9 days of the laboratory receiving the tissue sample. The test results are directly delivered via email or WhatsApp.
Synovial sarcoma is most common in adolescents and adults under 30 years of age, making it the most frequent sarcoma in the adolescent group. However, it can occur at any age, and the test is recommended for any individual where synovial sarcoma is clinically suspected.
No. This test requires tumour tissue from a surgical biopsy, which must be performed at a hospital or surgical centre. The tissue block is then submitted to the laboratory for FISH analysis. Synovial sarcoma [SS18] test home collection is not available.
A positive result indicates rearrangement of the SS18 gene and supports the diagnosis of synovial sarcoma. Your oncologist will review the result along with other findings and discuss appropriate next steps. Treatment planning typically involves a team of specialists.
Synovial Sarcoma [SS18] Test
