T-Cell Receptor Gene Rearrangement, PCR, Varies

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC70194Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID TCGRVCPT Codes 81340, 81342

T-Cell Receptor Gene Rearrangement, PCR, Varies

Clinical Use

Use

This test is useful for determining whether a T-cell population is polyclonal or monoclonal using body fluid or tissue specimens. It identifies the presence of clonal T-cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangements, which are markers of abnormal T-cell proliferations commonly seen in neoplastic conditions. The test can distinguish these clonal expansions from reactive, polyclonal T-cell populations, which are typical of non-neoplastic lymphoid proliferations.

Special Instructions

Body fluid or spinal fluid specimens must arrive within 4 days of collection. Ensure that decalcified specimens are not sent as they are not acceptable. A pathology report must be included with the specimen. Testing may be canceled if the extracted DNA does not meet quality requirements or if the reagent compatibility is not guaranteed. A repeat test will be attempted if the initial test fails, and if the retest is also unsuccessful, a charge will be applied for the failed test.

Limitations

The detection of clonal TCR-gene rearrangement does not necessarily indicate the presence of a T-cell neoplasm as false positives may occur due to the sensitivity of PCR. False-negative results can happen due to factors like poor amplification, or inadequate tissue sampling. The skewed amplification problem may arise when the total T-cell number in a sample is limited. Interpretation of presence or absence of predominant TCR-gene rearrangement profile is subjective and needs to be contextualized within other clinicopathologic information.

Test Details

New York Approved