Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) Panel

CPT Code(s)

88271x7, 88275x7

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
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is leukemia of small mature B-cells and mostly affect adults age 65 and above. CLL is the most common lymphoid malignancy accounting for about 11% of all hematological malignancies and 25% of all leukemias. Up to 50% of patients with CLL may have clonal cytogenetic abnormalities identified on routine chromosome analysis. However, CLL clones (lymphocytes) do not divide in culture and are resistant to mitogens, thus making routine cytogenetic analysis more difficult. FISH on the other hand is highly sensitive in detecting the genomic changes that have significant prognostic implications in CLL.

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

This is a basic CLL panel with clinically highly significant genetic prognostic markers included.  The probes included in this panel are based on latest NCCN and ASCO guidelines.

Probe List

CLL
Probe Name Locus/CHR Catalogue #
D6Z1/MYB 6q23.3/6p11.1-q11.1 Cytocell LPH016
D11Z1/ATM 11q22.3/11p11.1-q11.1 Cytocell LPH011
D12Z1 12p11.1-q11.1 Cytocell LPH069
D13S319/D13S828/D13S293 13q14.2-q14.3/13q34 Cytocell LPH068
IGH 14q32.33 Cytocell LPH014
TP53/D17Z1 17p13.1/17p11.1-q11.1 Cytocell LPH017

 

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

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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