BCL2 (18q21.3) Gene Rearrangement

DESCRIPTION – this test is used to detect BCL2 gene rearrangement in B-cell lymphocytes. It’s important to study the BCL2 gene rearrangement for differential diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. Research has revealed that FISH assay (segregation-based) is the better method as compared to PCR to detect the BCL2 gene mutation as it detects 100% of BCL2 arrangement.

CLINICAL UTILITY – BCL2 is a proto-oncogene, which is originally discovered at the chromosomal breakpoint of the t (14;18) in follicular lymphoma, which regulates apoptosis also known as programmed cell death inhibition of apoptosis may become the cause for the development of tumors.

METHODOLOGY – fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)

TURN AROUND TIME – 12 days after sample reaches the lab

PATIENT PREPARATION –

COLLECT

– non diluted bone marrow aspirate

SPECIMEN PREPARATION

– add 3ml of bone marrow to sodium heparin or add 5ml of whole blood

STORAGE OR TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE

– room

temperature

(8

-25 degrees C)

STABILITY

– ambient:

48 hours; refrigerated: 48 hours

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITIONS

–

clotted specimens

MRP – 8000

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory, please bring your previous health reports with you.