B-cell Lymphoma Panel
CPT Code(s)
88271x3, 88275x3
Performed
Clinical & Molecular Cytogenetics Laboratory
Clinical Indication and Relevance
Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is a sensitive method to detect smaller genomic changes associated with various hematological malignancies and solid tumors. There are several advantages with FISH technology over routine chromosome analysis and such advantages include the ability of FISH technology to detect genomic abnormalities in non-viable and non-dividing tissues, rapid turnaround time, and increased resolution. However, FISH technology is complementary to routine chromosome analysis and cannot substitute routine chromosome analysis for diagnosis of cancer.
Clinical Background
B-cell lymphoma is a large group of heterogenous disorders and comprises a majority of non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The most common abnormality seen in these disorders is the IGH gene translocations or rearrangements involving the 14q32 locus. Included in this group is follicular lymphoma (FL), Burkitt Lymphoma (BL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The characteristic chromosome abnormality, t(14;18) resulting in IGH/BCL2 fusion is seen in about 80% of FL, and about 20-30% of DLBCL while a majority of patients with BL harbor the characteristic t(8;14) resulting in cMYC/IGH fusion.
BCL6 gene rearrangements are also associated with B-cell lymphoma. Cyclin D1 gene rearrangements, especially the t(11;14) distinguishes mantle cell lymphoma (ML) from other lymphoproliferative disorders and hence is diagnostic for ML. Although majority of such abnormalities can be detected on routine chromosome analysis, interphase FISH analysis due to its high sensitivity can detect low-level clones thus identifying prognostically and therapeutically important genetic abnormalities.
Methodology
Culture/Hybridization/Microscopy/Interpretation
The samples are usually cultured for 24 hours before hybridizing with the probes. After hybridization and post-hybridization washes, the slides are analyzed under a fluorescence microscope equipped with epifluorescence and appropriate filter sets. Analysis and scoring are carried out by two certified technologists in a blinded fashion. Results are reviewed by both the laboratory manager and the director.
Specimen Collection / Handling Requirements
Probe List
| B-cell Lymphoma Panel | ||
| Probe Name | Locus/CHR | Catalogue # |
| BCL6 | 3q27.3 | Cytocell LPH035 |
| MYC | 8q24.21 | Cytocell LPS027 |
| IGH | 14q32.33 | Cytocell LPH014 |
Minimum Specimen Requirements
Bone Marrow and/or Leukemia Blood
Container: Sodium Heparin (green top tube)
Optimal Quantity: 2-3 ml
Minimum Quantity: 1-2 ml
Storage: Room Temperature
Stability at Room Temperature: 8 hours, then refrigerate
Transportation: Avoid freezing or heating over 35°C
Lymph node
Container: Sterile container with saline or transport media
Optimal Quantity: 1 x 1 x 1 cm piece of non-necrotic tissue
Storage: Room Temperature
Stability at Room Temperature: 8 hours, then refrigerate
Transportation: Avoid freezing or heating over 35°C
Turnaround time
Final report in 7-10 days
Communication
The morphologic interpretation and correlation of results on all cases is performed by a board-certified doctoral level scientist (laboratory director). The final report has a narrative description of results. If abnormalities are present, they are explained in a paragraph which helps to clarify and correlate chromosomal findings with phenotype. References are included in the report to help the referring physician with interpretation, which include books or journals that contain appropriate information. Recommendations are made as to any additional testing, if necessary.
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