Three Tests You Should Have Before Seeing a CLL Specialist
What are three tests patients should have before seeing a CLL specialist? In the “What Tests Should I See Before Seeing a CLL Specialist?” program, expert Dr. Nadia Kahn from Fox Chase Cancer Center shares three tests that chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients should get to assist with predicting each patient’s CLL progression, treatment response, and waiting period before starting treatment.
1. Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (FISH) Test
In a fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) test, the function of fluorescence is used to identify genetic mutations from CLL and where the mutations have been relocated to. The information gathered from FISH testing helps your doctor determine your CLL prognosis and optimal treatment options for your specific CLL.
2. Immunoglobulin Heavy-Chain Variable Region (IgVH) Mutational Test
In IgVH testing, immunoglobulin gene mutation status is checked for the expression in CLL cells. The IgVH mutational status then helps the CLL specialist determine which CLL subset the patient’s disease falls under – which helps in determining the disease progression that is likely to occur in that patient.
3. TP53 Sequencing Test
In a TP53 sequencing test, a mutation in the TP53 gene – translated as tumor protein 53 – is searched for. Normal function of the TP53 gene helps prevent the growth of tumors. But when TP53 is mutated, it may lead to uncontrolled cell growth and then cancer growth. TP53 mutation can either be passed down from your parents or can result from environmental factors that cause a mistake during the cell division process. The result of the TP53 sequencing test will help determine CLL prognosis and treatment options.
By getting the three vital CLL tests of FISH, IgVH mutational, and TP53 sequencing tests, they can help in determining a CLL patient’s prognosis and best treatment options. If you’d like to learn more about CLL, check out our CLL information.