Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test
About Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Myeloma FISH Panel, Plasma Cell Myeloma FISH Panel, MM Panel by FISH, Multiple Myeloma Cytogenetics FISH, Comprehensive Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH |
| Sample Type | Bone marrow aspirate (preferred); peripheral blood may be acceptable in certain cases |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required. You may eat and drink as normal. |
| Report Time | Within 7 to 10 days |
| Recommended For | Adults, typically over 65 years; slightly more common in men |
| Price | Starting at ₹13,200 |
What Is a Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test?
The Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH test is a specialised genetic test used to detect chromosomal abnormalities in plasma cells (the type of white blood cell affected in myeloma). FISH stands for Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation, a technique that uses fluorescent markers to identify specific changes in chromosomes.
Also known as Myeloma FISH Panel or MM Panel by FISH, doctors order it to confirm a diagnosis, determine disease risk, and guide treatment decisions for patients with suspected or confirmed multiple myeloma. The sample used is usually a bone marrow aspirate, collected from the back of the pelvis.
What Does a Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test Measure?
The Myeloma Cytogenetics test looks for specific chromosomal rearrangements, deletions, and amplifications in myeloma cells. Each finding carries a different clinical meaning. The panel typically includes the following markers:
| Marker | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Deletion 17p (TP53 deletion) | Loss of a tumour suppressor gene; associated with high-risk disease |
| t(4;14) translocation | Chromosomal swap linked to high-risk myeloma |
| t(14;16) translocation | Another high-risk chromosomal rearrangement |
| t(11;14) translocation | May indicate response to certain targeted therapies |
| t(14;20) translocation | Chromosomal change linked to high-risk disease |
| 1q21 gain or amplification | Extra chromosome copies; associated with poorer outcomes |
| 1p (CDKN2C) deletion | Loss of a chromosome segment at position 1p |
| 13q14 deletion | Loss of genetic material that may affect treatment response |
Why Is a Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor suspects or has already identified a plasma cell disorder. It helps classify the disease and plan the most appropriate treatment.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms often prompt doctors to investigate for multiple myeloma:
- Persistent fatigue and weakness
- Bone pain, particularly in the back or ribs
- Anaemia (a low red blood cell count)
- Frequent or recurring infections
- Kidney problems or reduced kidney function
- Unexplained weight loss
- Elevated blood calcium levels
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The Plasma Cell FISH test can help identify several related conditions. These include:
- Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a precursor condition that can progress to myeloma
- Smouldering multiple myeloma (SMM), an early-stage form of the disease
- Active multiple myeloma
- Specific risk categories (standard-risk or high-risk) that determine how aggressively the disease is likely to behave
Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
The Comprehensive Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH is not only a diagnostic tool. Doctors use it at the time of initial diagnosis and again at disease relapse or progression. Repeating the test during the course of illness can reveal new chromosomal changes that influence further treatment choices. It is also used to assess how well a patient is responding to ongoing treatment.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
This test involves a bone marrow collection procedure. Here is what you need to know before attending your appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. You may eat and drink normally on the day of the procedure.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- Tell your doctor if you take blood-thinning medicines such as warfarin, apixaban, or rivaroxaban. These increase bleeding risk and may need to be paused before the procedure.
- Inform the clinical team of any known allergies to medicines or dressings.
- Bring a list of all medicines you take, including herbal or non-prescription remedies.
- Arrange for someone to accompany you, particularly if sedation is being used.
- Have mild painkillers such as paracetamol available at home for any discomfort afterwards.
Step-by-Step Procedure
The bone marrow collection typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes and is performed by your doctor or hematologist at a hospital or specialised clinic:
- You will lie on your side with your knees drawn towards your chest, exposing the lower back.
- A clinician will clean the skin over the back of your pelvis and administer a local anaesthetic (numbing injection) to the area.
- Once the area is numb, a specialised bone marrow needle is carefully passed through the skin.
- A small amount of the liquid portion of the marrow is drawn out by gentle suction.
- The collected sample is placed in a specialised container and securely transferred to the laboratory.
- In the laboratory, FISH analysis is performed on the plasma cells isolated from the sample.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the quality of results from a Multiple Myeloma Markers (Cytogenetics) FISH test:
- Samples that are clotted or older than 24 hours give suboptimal results
- The sample must be kept at ambient room temperature (20°C to 25°C) during transport; extreme heat or freezing temperatures can destroy the cells
- A very low number of myeloma cells in the sample may lead to a false-negative result
- Recent chemotherapy can reduce the number of detectable abnormal cells
- An insufficient number of bone marrow cells in the sample affects analysis accuracy
Understanding Your Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test Results
Results from this test are qualitative, meaning they report whether a chromosomal abnormality is present or absent, along with the percentage of cells affected. There are no numerical cut-off values as with routine blood tests. Always review your results with your hematologist or treating doctor.
| Marker | Normal Result | Abnormal Result |
|---|---|---|
| All markers tested | Negative (not detected) | Positive (detected), with percentage of affected cells noted |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
A few technical and clinical factors are worth noting when interpreting results:
FISH testing identifies chromosomal abnormalities in over 90% of cases, compared to around 30% with conventional chromosome analysis. However, when a bone marrow sample contains very few myeloma cells, dilution of the specimen can reduce detection sensitivity. Results obtained after recent chemotherapy should be interpreted with particular care, as treatment can reduce the number of visible abnormal cells.
Managing Your Health During Myeloma Care
While this test does not have a target number to achieve, general steps can support your overall wellbeing during and after myeloma management:
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your hematologist
- Eat a balanced diet and stay adequately hydrated, following any dietary guidance from your medical team
- Stay as physically active as your condition allows, in line with your doctor's advice
Lupin Diagnostics Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test Price
The Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH test price at Lupin Diagnostics starts at approximately ₹13,200. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre, as this requires a specialised hospital-to-lab courier transfer arranged directly with Lupin Diagnostics.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | ₹13,200 |
| Pune | ₹13,200 |
| Bangalore | ₹13,200 |
| Chennai | ₹13,200 |
| Hyderabad | ₹13,200 |
| Kolkata | ₹13,200 |
| Indore | ₹13,200 |
| Bhopal | ₹13,200 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Ensure your hematologist or oncologist has scheduled or performed the bone marrow aspiration procedure.
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website prior to your procedure date to coordinate sample logistics.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location. Arrange for Lupin’s specialised medical courier to collect the pre-conditioned bone marrow sample directly from your hospital's OT or pathology lab, ensuring it is transported at ambient room temperature and processed within 24 to 48 hours.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH test uses fluorescent markers to detect chromosomal changes in myeloma cells. It is considered the gold-standard genetic test for identifying abnormalities that affect disease risk and treatment planning. The test is performed on bone marrow cells collected from the patient.
A doctor will collect a small amount of liquid bone marrow from the back of the pelvis using a specialised bone marrow aspiration needle. The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic before the procedure, so most people experience only mild discomfort. The whole process takes around 15 to 30 minutes.
Multiple myeloma behaves differently from person to person. The Myeloma Cytogenetics test identifies which chromosomal abnormalities are present, allowing doctors to classify patients as standard-risk or high-risk. This directly shapes treatment decisions and helps predict how the disease may progress.
Results for this test are typically available within 7 to 10 days. Preliminary findings for critical markers may be available within 7 days, with the final report completed by day 10. Turnaround times may vary slightly by laboratory.
No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally before the procedure. The most important step is to inform your doctor about any blood-thinning medicines you take, as these may need to be paused beforehand.
A high-risk result means certain chromosomal changes, such as deletion 17p, t(4;14), or t(14;16), have been detected. These are linked to more aggressive disease behaviour. Your hematologist will explain what this means for your treatment plan and monitoring schedule.
The Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH test at any Lupin Diagnostics centre may be ordered again if your disease relapses or progresses. Repeating the test can reveal new genetic changes that were not present at diagnosis and may guide adjustments to your treatment.
Multiple Myeloma Panel by FISH Test
