Cytogenetic studies can identify numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities that are diagnostic and/or prognostic for certain types of leukemia and lymphoma. Chromosome analysis is also used for monitoring treatment and predicting relapse. Leukemias and lymphomas can often be characterized by specific chromosome abnormalities. Chromosome analysis helps the physician to determine the precise diagnosis, prognosis and optimal treatment method. Since bone marrow is composed of actively dividing cells, usually the source of leukemic cells, and is more often involved by lymphomas, it is most often the specimen of choice for analysis.
CPT Codes:
88237(2), 88262(1), 88291(1)
Specimen Requirements:
Please Note: Use only unfixed material.
- Bone Marrow Aspirate:
- If aspiration syringe requires internal pre-coating to prevent clotting, diluted sodium heparin (green-top) tube should be utilized. Do not send syringes.
- 2-3 ml aseptically aspirated (minimum 5 x 106 cells / ideally 10-20 x 106 cells) in sodium heparin (green-top) tube. Cautionary Note: Lithium heparin also comes in green-top collection tubes. Do not collect in lithium heparin.
- Refrigerate specimen. Use cold pack for transport. Be sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen during transport.
- All specimens should be shipped to Genzyme on the day of the procedure. Delay in shipping may compromise cell viability and results.
- Bone Marrow Core Biopsy:
- Do not fix, place in transport medium.
- Refrigerate specimen. Use cold pack for transport. Be sure cold pack is not in direct contact with specimen during transport.
- All specimens should be shipped to Genzyme on the day of excision. Delay in shipping may compromise cell viability and results.
Turnaround Time:
7-9 days
Client Services:
Oncology/Pathology
800-447-5816
Specimen Services/Pickup:
877-246-1226