BCR-ABL Variant Panel_x000D_ Mbcr-b2a2, b3a2, b2a3 Test
Short Name: BCR-ABL Variant Panel
Also known as: BCR-ABL1 Variant Panel, BCR-ABL Mutation Panel, CML Variant Panel
BCR-ABL Variant Panel_x000D_ Mbcr-b2a2, b3a2, b2a3 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹9,000. Uses Multiplex End Point PCR on Bone marrow / Peripheral blood samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 5-7 days after the sample reaches the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the BCR-ABL Variant Panel is to detect and differentiate the common BCR-ABL fusion transcripts (b2a2, b3a2, b2a3) in patients suspected of having CML or ALL. This information is vital for confirming the diagnosis, predicting disease progression, and guiding the choice of targeted therapy. Additionally, the test is used to monitor molecular response during treatment, detect early relapse, and assess minimal residual disease. By identifying the specific variant, clinicians can better understand the patient's disease biology and make informed decisions regarding treatment adjustments.
- Test Code
- 6045
- CPT Code
- 81206
- ICD Code
- C92.1
- Price
- ₹9,000
- Sample Type
- Bone marrow / Peripheral blood
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 5-7 days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Multiplex End Point PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, a doctor's prescription is mandatory for this test. Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, especially tyrosine kinase inhibitors, as they may affect test results.
Method: Venipuncture or Bone Marrow Aspiration
Laboratory Analysis
The sample is collected via venipuncture (peripheral blood) or bone marrow aspiration by a trained professional. The procedure is quick and generally well-tolerated.
Report Delivery
After blood collection, you can resume normal activities. If bone marrow aspiration was performed, you may experience mild soreness at the site; follow your doctor's advice for care.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 5-7 days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the BCR-ABL Variant Panel is to detect and differentiate the common BCR-ABL fusion transcripts (b2a2, b3a2, b2a3) in patients suspected of having CML or ALL. This information is vital for confirming the diagnosis, predicting disease progression, and guiding the choice of targeted therapy. Additionally, the test is used to monitor molecular response during treatment, detect early relapse, and assess minimal residual disease. By identifying the specific variant, clinicians can better understand the patient's disease biology and make informed decisions regarding treatment adjustments.
How to Prepare
- Use EDTA vacutainer for peripheral blood collection.
- Transport the sample immediately to the laboratory at room temperature or with a cool pack as per instructions.
- Ensure the sample is labeled correctly with patient identification.
- For bone marrow, the sample should be collected in a heparinized syringe and transported promptly.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"The BCR-ABL variant panel is essential for identifying specific fusion transcripts that guide treatment decisions in CML. Early detection of variants like b2a2 and b3a2 helps in selecting appropriate tyrosine kinase inhibitors and monitoring minimal residual disease."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted sample.
- Incorrect container (e.g., heparin instead of EDTA).
- Sample received after prolonged delay without proper storage.
- Inadequate sample volume.
Understanding Your Results
Indicates the presence of the typical BCR-ABL fusion seen in CML. The specific variant may have prognostic significance; b3a2 is associated with a slightly better response to imatinib in some studies.
Action: Initiate or continue TKI therapy. Monitor with quantitative PCR for molecular response.
A less common variant, but still indicates BCR-ABL fusion. Clinical significance is similar to other variants.
Action: Treat as CML with TKI therapy and monitor response.
No common BCR-ABL transcript detected. This may be due to low disease burden, rare variants, or absence of BCR-ABL rearrangement.
Action: Consider further testing with FISH or karyotyping. If clinical suspicion remains, repeat testing on bone marrow sample.
Consult a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms such as fatigue, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or abdominal fullness. If you have been diagnosed with CML, regular monitoring with this test is essential. Seek immediate medical advice if you notice any new or worsening symptoms.
Limitations
- ⚠This panel detects only the three most common BCR-ABL variants (b2a2, b3a2, b2a3). Other rare variants (e.g., e1a2, e19a2) are not covered.
- ⚠Qualitative test does not quantify the level of BCR-ABL transcripts; quantitative PCR is required for monitoring MRD.
- ⚠Bone marrow sample may be required if peripheral blood is negative but clinical suspicion remains high.
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or bruising at the blood draw site.
- ●Rare risk of infection at the bone marrow aspiration site.
- ●Fainting or dizziness during blood collection.
Interfering Factors
- ●Sample degradation due to delayed transport or improper storage.
- ●Contamination of sample with non-leukemic cells.
- ●Low leukemic cell burden in peripheral blood may lead to false-negative results.
- ●Presence of rare or atypical BCR-ABL variants not covered by this panel.
- ●Prior treatment with TKIs may reduce transcript levels below detectable limits.
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | BCR-ABL Variant Panel_x000D_ Mbcr-b2a2, b3a2, b2a3 | BCR-ABL Quantitative PCR | Cytogenetic Analysis (Karyotyping) | FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | BCR-ABL Variant Panel_x000D_ Mbcr-b2a2, b3a2, b2a3 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BCR-ABL Variant Panel test?
Why is this test important for CML?
What sample is required?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
What is the cost of the test?
Is home sample collection available?
Can this test detect all BCR-ABL variants?
Is a doctor's prescription required?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
How should the sample be transported?
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