Cancer Cytogenetics

Bone Marrow

CYTO BM

Test Synonym:

Karyotype analysis, Chromosome analysis, cytogenetic analysis

CPT Code:

88237 – Tissue culture for neoplastic disorders; bone marrow,
blood cells
88264 – Analyze 20-25 cells
88280 x2 – Chromosome analysis; additional karyotypes, each study
88291 – Cytogenetics and molecular cytogenetics, interpretation and report

Turnaround Time:

5-7 days

Methodology:

24, 48 and/or 72 hour culture / G-banding

Specimen Requirements:

• 3ml (min. 1ml) bone marrow in sodium heparin
• 5mm3 bone marrow core biopsy in MPLN media

Causes for Rejection:

Clotted specimen; Specimen exposed to extreme temperature; Anticoagulant toxic to cells; Insufficient number of cells

Specimen Stability:

18-25°C for 48 hours

Storage and Handling:

• Ship ambient overnight;
• Call before sending specimen on Friday
• Ship Saturday for Monday delivery and protected specimen from extreme temperature
• Please send WBC count with requisition when ordering bone marrow cytogenetics

Reference Range:

Chromosome count and morphology consistent with normal karyotype

Indication:

Cytogenetic analysis in malignant disease involves the study of the tumor cells themselves. In leukemia, a bone marrow aspirate is usually obtained for study. In some cases, peripheral blood is used in place of the bone marrow, particularly is the white blood cell count is <10,000. The purpose of the cytogenetic study in hematological disorders is to detect the presence of acquired chromosome changes, i.e. those aberrations that have arisen secondary to the disease state. The study of chromosomes in leukemia serves two functions: first, to assist in a more accurate diagnosis and second, to provide prognostic information. In leukemia, specific chromosome abnormalities often correlate with particular subtypes of disease. Serial samples from the patient permit the study of cytogenetic patterns during the various stages of a patients’ clinical course.

References:

Heim et al. (1995). Cancer Cytogenetics. New York: Wiley-Liss.