PML/RARA Quantitative Test
Short Name: PML/RARA Quantitative
Also known as: PML-RARA fusion test, t(15;17) quantitative PCR, APL genetic test
PML/RARA Quantitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹11,560. Uses Real Time PCR on Whole Blood, Culture Cells, Bone Marrow Aspirate samples. Results in Reports are available within 3 working days. For urgent cases, an email report can be provided within 36 hours, and phone consultation within 24 hours.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR
Consultant Physician · Reg: 8052
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the PML/RARA quantitative test is to detect the presence of the PML-RARA fusion gene, which is diagnostic of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). It is used for: 1) Confirming a diagnosis of APL in patients with clinical suspicion or abnormal blood counts. 2) Establishing a baseline level of fusion transcripts at diagnosis, which helps in risk stratification. 3) Monitoring response to therapy by measuring the reduction in transcript levels. 4) Detecting minimal residual disease (MRD) after treatment, which predicts relapse. 5) Guiding treatment decisions, such as the need for additional therapy or maintenance. 6) Early detection of molecular relapse, allowing timely intervention. 7) Differentiating APL from other acute leukemias with similar morphology.
- Test Code
- 6220
- CPT Code
- 83891
- ICD Code
- C92.4
- Price
- ₹11,560
- Sample Type
- Whole Blood, Culture Cells, Bone Marrow Aspirate
- Result Time
- Reports are available within 3 working days. For urgent cases, an email report can be provided within 36 hours, and phone consultation within 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, the patient must sign a consent document and provide relevant clinical history. Inform the doctor about any medications or recent blood transfusions.
Method: Venipuncture or bone marrow aspiration by trained professional
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm, or a bone marrow aspirate is collected by a healthcare professional. The procedure is quick and may cause minor discomfort.
Report Delivery
After blood collection, apply pressure to the puncture site to stop bleeding. If bone marrow aspiration was performed, the site may be sore for a few days. Resume normal activities unless advised otherwise.
Timeline: Reports are available within 3 working days. For urgent cases, an email report can be provided within 36 hours, and phone consultation within 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the PML/RARA quantitative test is to detect the presence of the PML-RARA fusion gene, which is diagnostic of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). It is used for: 1) Confirming a diagnosis of APL in patients with clinical suspicion or abnormal blood counts. 2) Establishing a baseline level of fusion transcripts at diagnosis, which helps in risk stratification. 3) Monitoring response to therapy by measuring the reduction in transcript levels. 4) Detecting minimal residual disease (MRD) after treatment, which predicts relapse. 5) Guiding treatment decisions, such as the need for additional therapy or maintenance. 6) Early detection of molecular relapse, allowing timely intervention. 7) Differentiating APL from other acute leukemias with similar morphology.
How to Prepare
- Use EDTA vacutainer for blood sample
- For bone marrow aspirate, use heparinized syringe
- Label the sample with patient name, date, and time of collection
- Transport the sample to the laboratory immediately at room temperature
- Do not freeze the sample
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052
"The PML/RARA quantitative test is essential for diagnosing APL and monitoring minimal residual disease. Early detection significantly improves outcomes."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted sample
- Incorrect container or anticoagulant
- Sample received after 48 hours without proper storage
- Inadequate volume
- Unlabeled or mislabeled sample
Understanding Your Results
Negative
No PML-RARA fusion transcript detected. APL is unlikely, but if clinical suspicion remains, consider alternative testing.
Positive (low level)
Presence of PML-RARA transcript at low levels. May indicate minimal residual disease or early relapse. Clinical correlation required.
Positive (high level)
High levels of PML-RARA transcript. Consistent with active APL or high disease burden. Immediate clinical action needed.
Consult your oncologist if you have symptoms of APL such as unexplained bleeding, bruising, fatigue, or fever. Also, if you have been diagnosed with APL and are undergoing treatment, regular monitoring with this test is essential. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden severe bleeding or neurological symptoms.
Limitations
- ⚠The test may not detect rare variant translocations involving RARA with other partner genes
- ⚠Quantitative results may vary between laboratories due to lack of standardization
- ⚠A negative result does not completely rule out APL if clinical suspicion is high; further testing may be needed
- ⚠The test is not suitable for screening the general population
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with morphology, immunophenotyping, and cytogenetics
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor pain or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Risk of infection (rare) with bone marrow aspiration
- ●Bleeding or hematoma formation
- ●Anxiety or dizziness during blood collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolysis or clot in the sample may degrade RNA and affect results
- ●Inadequate sample volume or improper storage can lead to false negatives
- ●Contamination with normal cells may dilute the fusion transcript
- ●Recent blood transfusion may interfere with detection
- ●Certain medications, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, may alter transcript levels
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | PML/RARA Quantitative Test | Cytogenetic Analysis (Karyotyping) | Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) | Qualitative PCR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | PML/RARA Quantitative Test |
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