BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR
Understanding BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR
What is BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR?
This test detects the presence or absence of BCR-ABL mRNA transcript in the patient.
BCR-ABL is a fusion gene whose qualitative detection is done in bone marrow or peripheral blood samples. BCR-ABL is an activated protein kinase resulting translocation of long arms of chromosome 9 & chromosome 22 which is also known as Philadelphia chromosome. Philadelphia chromosome is found in both Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Acute Lymphoid Leukemia. The BCR-ABL gene translocation or t(9;22) is found in more than 95% of CML patients, 5% of pediatric ALL-B CALLA positive, and 15-30% of adult ALL-B CALLA positive patients.
What is BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR used for?
This test is useful in diagnosing the presence of CML and ALL in an individual and also to monitor their treatment. The test must be ordered when signs and symptoms of leukemia such as anemia, weakness, palpitations, easy bruising and excessive bleeding due to loss of platelets, bone and joint pain, confusion and seizure, night sweats etc. are observed in the patient.
Interpreting BCR-ABL Qualitative PCR results
Interpretations
If the BCR-ABL sequence is present in the result of the Qualitative PCR test, it means that the person is diagnosed with positive CML and ALL.