Oncology FISH Analysis - Deletion 5 [MDS]

Clinical Use

Use

Oncology FISH Analysis – Deletion 5 [MDS] is a Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) test designed to detect a common chromosome deletion associated with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). MDS is a group of cancers that includes acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and typically affects adults. Patients with MDS often experience increased risk for infection, anemia, and easy bleeding due to improper blood cell differentiation. Identification of Deletion 5 is considered favorable when it is the only cytogenetic abnormality present; otherwise, it can signal a poor prognosis in therapy-related MDS. This abnormality is found in approximately 20-30% of cases of MDS. The results of this test provide critical information but must be interpreted alongside clinical and pathological data and should not be used as a standalone diagnostic tool for MDS.

Special Instructions

The test requires specific specimen collection methods. For both Bone Marrow and Leukemic Blood, it is crucial to use Sodium Heparin (green-top) tubes. Specimens must be shipped at ambient temperature within a certain time frame to ensure optimal testing conditions. Clinics should adhere strictly to the shipping instructions to prevent rejection.

Limitations

This FISH assay tests exclusively for the deletion of chromosome 5. Any abnormalities involving other genes or chromosomes remain undetected by this assay. It is crucial to consider that the specificity of this test may yield false impressions of other genetic anomalies if used in isolation and without corroboration from additional cytogenetic testing.

Test Details