PML-RARA Test For APL Blood Cancer & Leukemia

A PML-RARA test is a diagnostic tool used to detect a specific genetic fusion associated with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a rare type of blood cancer. PML-RARA (promyelocytic leukemia/retinoic acid receptor alpha) helps identify this genetic abnormality in blood or bone marrow samples, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of APL.

PML-RARA Test

Here are the basic details of the PML-RARA Test.

Also Known As	APL Genetic Fusion Test
Type	Genetic Test
Purpose	Diagnose Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL)
Sample Type	Blood
Preparation	No Special Preparation Required
Fasting	Not Applicable
Gender	All
Age Group	All
Normal Value	Negative
Reporting Time	Within 24 hours
Cost	4000-6000 INR*

*PML-RARA Test Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

PML-RARA Test Means

The PML-RARA test identifies a genetic abnormality associated with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).

It detects the fusion of the PML and RARA genes, aiding in APL diagnosis.
This test is crucial for tailoring specific treatments for APL.
It involves genetic analysis to determine the presence of the PML-RARA fusion gene.
Early detection through this test can improve APL prognosis.
The PML-RARA test is essential for precise leukemia diagnosis.

PML-RARA Test Purpose

The purpose of the PML-RARA Test is to:

Diagnose acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).
Identify the PML-RARA fusion gene.
Tailor specific treatments for APL.
Monitor the response to APL therapies.
Improve the prognosis and management of APL.

PML-RARA Test Price, Normal Range, Result, Purpose, Procedure Meaning and Interpretation - Drlogy Test

PML-RARA Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the PML-RARA Test.

Before Test

Consult with your healthcare provider about the test and its purpose.
Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, medical history, or allergies.
Follow any specific fasting or dietary instructions provided.

During Test

Stay relaxed and cooperate with the healthcare professionals.
Blood sample collection is common for this test.

After Test

Resume your normal activities and medications unless advised otherwise.
Await the test results from your healthcare provider.
Discuss the results with your healthcare provider to understand any implications and further steps, if necessary.

PML-RARA Test Procedure

Here is the basic PML-RARA Test Procedure.

A blood sample is collected from the patient.
The sample is sent to a specialized genetics laboratory.
Genetic analysis is performed to identify the PML-RARA fusion gene.
The presence of this gene is confirmed for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) diagnosis.
The results guide treatment decisions and prognosis assessment.

PML-RARA Test Result

Positive: Presence of PML-RARA gene fusion, suggesting acute promyelocytic leukemia.
Negative: Absence of PML-RARA fusion gene, indicating no leukemia.
Further Evaluation: Inconclusive results may require additional tests or expert consultation.

PML-RARA Test Normal Result

Here is the normal result of the PML-RARA Test

PML-RARA Test Result	Interpretation
Negative	PML-RARA gene sequence not detected

PML-RARA Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the PML-RARA Test.

Result	Interpretation
Positive	The presence of the PML-RARA gene sequence suggests that APL
Negative	Absence of the PML-RARA gene sequence, is not indicative of APL
Not Applicable	For individuals without the PML-RARA gene sequence, ATRA therapy is not typically used, and PML-RARA molecular testing may not be applicable for monitoring.

PML-RARA Test Positive Results

Here are PML-RARA Test Positive Results Potential Causes explained.

Cause	Description
Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL)	The most common cause of a positive PML-RARA test is the presence of the PML-RARA fusion gene, which is characteristic of APL.
APL Subtypes	Different subtypes of APL may have variations of the PML-RARA fusion gene, leading to positive results.
Relapse	A positive result may indicate a relapse in APL patients who had previously achieved remission.
False Positive	In some cases, technical errors or contamination during testing may lead to false positive results.
Other RARA Fusions	Rarely, other fusion genes involving RARA may yield a positive test result.

PML-RARA Test Negative Results

Here are PML-RARA Test Negative Results and Potential Causes explained.

Cause	Description
Absence of PML-RARA	The most common cause of a negative PML-RARA test is the absence of the PML-RARA fusion gene, indicating the absence of APL.
Other Leukemia Subtypes	A negative result can also occur in other types of leukemia or hematologic disorders that do not involve PML-RARA.
Insufficient Sample	Insufficient or poor-quality samples may result in inconclusive or negative test results.
Technical Error	Errors during the testing process, such as DNA extraction or PCR amplification, can lead to false negative results.
Early Stage or Low Disease Burden	In some cases, the test may be negative if the patient is in the early stages of APL or has a low disease burden.

Specimen Requirements For PML-RARA Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the PML-RARA Test.

Specimen	Serum
Volume	1 ml
Container	Green-top (heparin) tube or lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection	Transport to the testing laboratory at room temperature, use of a cool pack or a LabCorp transport kit is acceptable. Do not allow samples to overheat or freeze.
Storage	Room temperature
Sample Stability	Temperature	Period
	Room temperature	7 days
Causes for Rejection	Broken Vacutainer; broken slides; stained slides; paraffin blocks; paraffin slides; decalcified bone cores; frozen specimen; quantity not sufficient for analysis

PML-RARA Test is Safe?

A safe genetic test that poses a minimal physical risk to the patient.

Involves a simple blood sample collection.
The primary concern may be psychological or emotional, related to potential test results.

When Do You Get PML-RARA Test Results?

The turnaround time varies but is often available Within 24 hours.
Results may be delivered during a follow-up appointment with the healthcare provider.

PML-RARA Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of PML-RARA Test.

It only identifies the PML-RARA fusion gene and doesn't provide a comprehensive leukemia diagnosis.
A negative test doesn't rule out other forms of leukemia.
Emotional and psychological stress may impact patients awaiting test results.
False positives or negatives may occur, requiring further confirmatory tests.
The test's utility depends on clinical context and is not a standalone diagnostic.

PML-RARA Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the PML-RARA Test.

Minimal physical risk, as it involves a routine blood sample.
Potential psychological or emotional stress related to the test's purpose.
Risk of false-positive or false-negative results.
Interpretation challenges based on clinical context.
Limited risks associated with the genetic test itself.

Doctor Recommendations After PML-RARA Test Result

Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the PML-RARA Test.

PML-RARA Test Result	Doctor to Visit	Reason to Go to Doctor
Positive	Hematologist	APL diagnosis, discuss treatment, like ATRA therapy.
Negative	Healthcare Provider	Rule out APL, discuss appropriate medical care.

PML-RARA Test Price

Here are the estimated PML-RARA Test Prices in India with different top cities:

City	Price Range (INR)*
Mumbai	4000-6000
New Delhi	4500-6000
Bangalore	4000-6000
Hyderabad	4500-6000
Kolkata	4000-6000
Pune	4500-6000
Lucknow	4000-6000
Noida	4500-6000
Surat	4500-6000
Gurugram	4000-6000
Patna	4500-6000
Chennai	4000-6000
Jaipur	4500-6000
Ahmedabad	4000-6000

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, PML-RARA Test identifies a specific genetic marker in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), guiding treatment decisions for this condition. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

PML-RARA Test - Wikipedia [1].
PML-RARA Test - NIH [2].

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FAQ

How is the PML-RARA test performed?

The PML-RARA test typically involves collecting a blood or bone marrow sample from the patient. This sample is then subjected to molecular genetic testing, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), to detect the PML-RARA fusion gene.

What does a positive PML-RARA test result mean?

A positive result indicates the presence of the PML-RARA fusion gene, confirming the diagnosis of APL. This finding is essential for tailoring appropriate treatment strategies, as APL often requires distinct therapies compared to other types of leukemia.

Is the PML-RARA test only for APL?

Yes, the PML-RARA test is primarily used to diagnose APL, as this fusion gene is a hallmark of this specific leukemia subtype. It is not routinely performed for other types of leukemia or blood cancers.

How long does it take to get PML-RARA test results?

The turnaround time for PML-RARA test results can vary, but it often takes a few days to a week. It's important to discuss the expected timeline with your healthcare provider or testing facility.