MLL Gene Rearrangement

DESCRIPTION – the MLL gene rearrangements are located at 11q23. It is a chromosomal abnormality associated with acute leukemia, especially in newborns and therapy related leukemia

CLINICAL UTILITY – prognostic marker for acute lymphoblastic leukemia or acute myelogenous leukemia

METHODOLOGY – fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)

TURN AROUND TIME – 7 days

PATIENT PREPARATION –

COLLECT – non diluted bone marrow aspirate

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – 3-4 ml of bone marrow or peripheral blood in green top or lavender top tube

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE – 2-8 degrees C (with cold pack) and transport within 72 hours

STABILITY – ambient: 48 hours; refrigerated: 48 hours

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITIONS – clotted specimens

MRP – 4000.00

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory