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FISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test

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FISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test

Short Name: Williams Syndrome FISH Test

Also known as: Williams Syndrome FISH Test, ELN Gene Deletion Test, Chromosome 7q11.23 Microdeletion FISH, Williams-Beuren Syndrome FISH Detection, WS Microdeletion Detection by FISH

FISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹8,500. Uses FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) on Whole Blood samples. Results in Sample acceptance is daily by 4:00 PM. Reports are available within 4 working days from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

DiagnosticAll Ages🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The primary purpose of the FISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test is to confirm or rule out the diagnosis of Williams Syndrome by detecting the deletion of the ELN gene and surrounding genes at chromosome 7q11.23. This test is essential for establishing a definitive molecular diagnosis when clinical features suggest Williams Syndrome. It helps differentiate Williams Syndrome from other genetic conditions with overlapping features, guides clinical management by identifying cardiac and developmental risks, and supports informed genetic counseling for affected families regarding recurrence risk and family planning.

Test Code
594
CPT Code
88271
ICD Code
Q87.89
Price
₹8,500
Sample Type
Whole Blood
Result Time
Sample acceptance is daily by 4:00 PM. Reports are available within 4 working days from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory.
Fasting Required
No
Method
FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation such as fasting is required. Ensure that the Chromosome and FISH Analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) is duly filled and accompanies the sample. Inform the collection center of any ongoing medications or recent blood transfusions.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A venipuncture will be performed to collect 5 mL of whole blood into a Sodium Heparin (Green Top) tube. The collection is a routine blood draw and typically takes less than 5 minutes.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball or gauze for 3 to 5 minutes to prevent bruising. The sample will be shipped at 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. Do not freeze the sample. Sample must reach the laboratory within 48 hours of collection for optimal results.

Timeline: Sample acceptance is daily by 4:00 PM. Reports are available within 4 working days from the date of sample receipt at the laboratory.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting or special preparation is required. A duly filled Chromosome and FISH Analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) must accompany the blood sample. Inform the clinician about any medications, recent transfusions, or relevant family history.
2
During the Test:A routine venipuncture blood draw will be performed. Approximately 5 mL of blood will be collected into a Sodium Heparin (Green Top) tube. The procedure typically takes under 5 minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
3
After the Test:After blood collection, gentle pressure should be applied to the puncture site. No specific post-procedure restrictions apply. The sample is transported to the laboratory at controlled room temperature (18-22°C) and must not be frozen.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of the FISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test is to confirm or rule out the diagnosis of Williams Syndrome by detecting the deletion of the ELN gene and surrounding genes at chromosome 7q11.23. This test is essential for establishing a definitive molecular diagnosis when clinical features suggest Williams Syndrome. It helps differentiate Williams Syndrome from other genetic conditions with overlapping features, guides clinical management by identifying cardiac and developmental risks, and supports informed genetic counseling for affected families regarding recurrence risk and family planning.

How to Prepare

  • Collect 5 mL (minimum 3 mL) whole blood by venipuncture
  • Use 1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube only
  • Ship the sample at 18 to 22 degrees Celsius room temperature
  • DO NOT FREEZE the sample under any circumstances
  • Duly filled Chromosome and FISH Analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) is mandatory with the sample
  • Label the sample correctly with patient name, date of birth, and collection date
  • Ensure the sample reaches the laboratory within 48 hours of collection

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532

"As an obstetrician and fetal medicine specialist, I frequently encounter prenatal and neonatal clinical features that warrant genetic evaluation for chromosomal microdeletion syndromes. The FISH test for Williams Syndrome is a critical diagnostic tool when a newborn or infant presents with supravalvular aortic stenosis, distinctive elfin-like facial features, feeding difficulties, or unexplained developmental delays. Because the deletion at 7q11.23 is too small for conventional karyotyping to detect, FISH remains the gold standard targeted test. Early confirmation of Williams Syndrome through this test enables timely cardiac surveillance, multidisciplinary developmental support, and informed genetic counseling for families planning future pregnancies. I strongly recommend this test for any infant or child where clinical suspicion exists."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeWhole Blood
Sample Volume5 mL (3 mL minimum)
Container1 Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature (18-22°C)48 hours
Refrigerated (2-8°C)Not Applicable
FrozenNot Applicable (DO NOT FREEZE)
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample collected in EDTA (Purple Top) or any tube other than Sodium Heparin (Green Top)
  • Frozen samples
  • Hemolyzed or clotted blood samples
  • Sample received after 48 hours of collection at room temperature
  • Missing or incomplete Chromosome and FISH Analysis Requisition Form (Form 17)
  • Sample volume less than 3 mL

Understanding Your Results

The FISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test interprets the presence or absence of a fluorescent signal at the 7q11.23 locus on chromosome 7. The following guide explains how results should be understood. All results must be correlated with the clinical presentation by a qualified geneticist or physician.
📊

Two FISH signals detected (Normal / No Deletion)

The 7q11.23 region including the ELN gene is intact on both chromosomes. Williams Syndrome due to the classic 7q11.23 microdeletion is unlikely. If clinical suspicion remains high, further evaluation with chromosomal microarray or gene sequencing may be considered.

📊

One FISH signal detected (Deletion / Positive for Williams Syndrome)

A hemizygous deletion at chromosome 7q11.23 is identified, consistent with a diagnosis of Williams Syndrome. Clinical correlation is recommended. Genetic counseling and further evaluation for associated cardiac, endocrine, and developmental features should be initiated.

📊

Atypical or equivocal signal pattern

An unusual signal pattern may indicate a partial deletion, atypical rearrangement, or technical artifact. Repeat testing, additional FISH probes, or chromosomal microarray analysis is recommended for clarification.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor or a clinical geneticist if your child presents with distinctive facial features, unexplained developmental delays, heart murmurs or cardiac anomalies, feeding difficulties in infancy, hypersensitivity to sound, or if there is a family history of Williams Syndrome. Early consultation enables timely diagnosis, cardiac surveillance, and comprehensive developmental support.

Limitations

  • This test specifically targets the 7q11.23 deletion and does not screen for other chromosomal abnormalities
  • Rare cases of atypical or partial deletions in the Williams Syndrome critical region may not be detected
  • Mosaicism may not be reliably identified if the deleted cell line is present at very low levels
  • This test does not detect point mutations or other non-deletion variants in the ELN gene
  • Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and may require confirmatory testing such as chromosomal microarray analysis

Risks & Considerations

  • Minor bruising or discomfort at the venipuncture site
  • Rare risk of fainting during blood draw
  • Very small risk of infection at the puncture site

Interfering Factors

  • Sample collected in incorrect anticoagulant (must be Sodium Heparin, Green Top tube)
  • Frozen or hemolyzed blood samples may yield unreliable results
  • Failure to submit the duly filled Chromosome and FISH Analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) may delay processing
  • Low cell viability due to delayed sample transport beyond 48 hours at room temperature

Compare With Similar Tests

TestFISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome TestFISH for Williams SyndromeChromosomal Microarray (CMA)Conventional KaryotypingWhole Exome Sequencing (WES)
ComparisonFISH - Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FISH Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test?
This is a molecular cytogenetic test that uses Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) technology to detect the microdeletion at chromosome 7q11.23 that causes Williams Syndrome. The test uses fluorescently labeled DNA probes that bind to the specific chromosomal region, and the presence or absence of fluorescent signals is analyzed to determine if the deletion is present.
What is Williams Syndrome and what causes it?
Williams Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder affecting approximately 1 in 10,000 to 20,000 individuals worldwide. It is caused by the deletion of approximately 26 to 28 genes on chromosome 7q11.23, including the elastin (ELN) gene. This deletion leads to characteristic features including cardiovascular problems, distinctive facial features, developmental delays, intellectual disability, and hypersensitivity to sound.
Why is FISH used instead of a regular chromosome test for Williams Syndrome?
The microdeletion responsible for Williams Syndrome is very small and cannot be detected by conventional high-resolution chromosome analysis (karyotyping). FISH technology uses targeted fluorescent probes to directly visualize the specific 7q11.23 region, making it the most reliable method for detecting this particular deletion.
What sample is required for this test?
A blood sample of 5 mL (minimum 3 mL) is required, collected in a Sodium Heparin (Green Top) tube via venipuncture. The sample must be shipped at room temperature (18-22°C) and must not be frozen. A duly filled Chromosome and FISH Analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) is mandatory.
Is fasting required before this test?
No, fasting is not required for the FISH Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test. The patient can eat and drink normally before the blood sample is collected.
How accurate is the FISH test for Williams Syndrome?
FISH is highly accurate and reliable for detecting the 7q11.23 microdeletion. The ELN gene has been reported to be hemizygous (deleted on one chromosome copy) in up to 96% of patients with Williams Syndrome. This makes FISH one of the most sensitive and specific diagnostic tools available for this condition.
How long does it take to get the results?
The report is typically available within 4 working days from the date the sample is received and accepted at the laboratory. Samples accepted daily by 4:00 PM. Reports can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means that the FISH test detected only one signal at the 7q11.23 region instead of the normal two signals, indicating a hemizygous deletion consistent with Williams Syndrome. Your doctor or geneticist will correlate this with clinical findings and recommend further evaluation, cardiac assessment, and genetic counseling.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means that two FISH signals were detected at the 7q11.23 region, indicating no deletion. This makes Williams Syndrome unlikely due to the classic microdeletion. However, if clinical suspicion remains high, your doctor may recommend additional testing such as chromosomal microarray analysis or other genetic evaluations.
Is this test available for prenatal diagnosis?
FISH for Williams Syndrome can be performed on prenatal samples in certain clinical scenarios. If prenatal ultrasound findings or family history suggest Williams Syndrome, consult your obstetrician or fetal medicine specialist to discuss whether prenatal testing is appropriate and which sample type would be required.
Does DNA Labs India offer home sample collection for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for the FISH Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test. This service is available in numerous cities across India including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and many more. You can book home collection online.
What is the cost of the FISH Microdeletion Detection for Williams Syndrome Test?
The test is available at DNA Labs India for a special discounted price of Rs 8500 (INR 8500). This price includes free home sample collection in eligible cities across India, the FISH analysis, and digital report delivery.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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