Description
Why It’s Done
This test is primarily used to:
• Diagnose chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and other related cancers, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
• Confirm the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome, which helps identify CML in patients with symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and an enlarged spleen.
• Monitor treatment in patients with CML to ensure that therapies (like tyrosine kinase inhibitors) are effectively targeting the BCR-ABL protein.
• Assess relapse risk or response to treatment, as the BCR-ABL gene can help track disease progression.
Preparation
• No special preparation is required for this test.
• Blood sample: The test is usually performed using a blood sample, which is drawn from a vein in your arm. In some cases, a bone marrow sample may be required if the blood test is inconclusive.
• Inform your doctor about any medications or treatments you are receiving, as certain therapies can influence the results.
