Ordering Guidance

Consult with the laboratory before ordering this test.

The fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes to be analyzed must be specified on the request when ordering, otherwise test processing may be delayed in order to determine the intended analysis. If specific probes are not provided, this test may be canceled by the laboratory.

If testing paraffin-embedded tissue, bone marrow, or blood specimen for specific nonhematologic malignancies is desired, order MISCF / Miscellaneous Studies Using Chromosome-Specific Probes, FISH. If this test is ordered in this situation, it will be canceled and MISCF ordered and performed as the appropriate test.

Necessary Information

1. A list of probes requested for analysis is required.

2. A reason for testing should be submitted with each specimen. The laboratory will not reject testing if this information is not provided, but appropriate testing and interpretation may be compromised or delayed. If this information is not provided, an appropriate indication for testing may be entered by Mayo Clinic Laboratories.

3. A pathology and/or flow cytometry report may be requested by the laboratory to optimize testing and aid in interpretation of results.

Specimen Required

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Preferred

Specimen Type: Bone marrow

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Yellow top (ACD)

Acceptable: Green top (heparin) or lavender top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 2-3 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. It is preferable to send the first aspirate from the bone marrow collection.

2. Invert several times to mix bone marrow.

3. Send bone marrow specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.

Acceptable

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Yellow top (ACD)

Acceptable: Green top (heparin) or lavender top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 6 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Invert several times to mix blood.

2. Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.